What is the primary focus of hospice care in nursing homes?

The primary focus of hospice care in nursing homes is to provide comfort and support for residents with terminal illnesses. This approach emphasizes the importance of quality of life rather than curative treatments. Hospice care is designed to alleviate pain and address the emotional, spiritual, and social needs of both the residents and their families during this challenging time. By prioritizing comfort, hospice care helps to ensure that individuals experiencing the end stages of life can maintain dignity and receive support tailored to their specific needs.

In contrast, improving physical health outcomes, offering rehabilitation services, and enhancing recreational activities are not aligned with the hospice philosophy. These options are typically more associated with proactive treatment and recovery goals, which are not the primary focus when a resident enters hospice care. Instead, hospice recognizes that the aim is to provide compassionate care and improve the overall experience for those nearing the end of life.