Facing a loved one's serious illness is never easy, and choosing the right kind of care can feel overwhelming. Palliative care and hospice are two options designed to bring comfort, dignity, and support during this time — but they serve different purposes and are appropriate at different stages. Understanding how each works can help families and facility staff make informed decisions and ensure residents receive care aligned with their goals and wishes.

Palliative Care vs. Hospice: What's the Difference?

• Palliative care can begin at any stage of a serious illness, alongside curative treatment, and focuses on relieving pain and symptoms.
  

• Hospice care is typically reserved for residents with a life expectancy of six months or less, focusing on comfort rather than cure.
  

• Both approaches prioritize quality of life, working closely with the resident's care team, facility staff, and family.
  

For assisted living residents, palliative care often means coordinated support for managing chronic pain, breathlessness, or fatigue, without necessarily stopping other treatment. Hospice, by contrast, shifts the focus entirely to comfort once curative options are no longer the goal. Our providers work alongside each resident's primary care physician, family, and facility staff to determine which path fits — and to ensure transitions between levels of care happen smoothly, with clear documentation and communication at every step.

Coordinated care means residents and families never have to navigate these decisions alone — our team is here to guide every step.