When a loved one is seriously ill, families are often faced with important care decisions—decisions that come with medical terms, emotional weight, and an urgent need for clarity. Two of the most compassionate options available are hospice and palliative care.
At Curantis Home Care, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate these choices. This guide will help you understand the differences between palliative care and hospice care, when each applies, and how we support families in York, PA during some of life’s most delicate transitions.
Quick Takeaway
- Palliative care provides symptom relief at any stage of serious illness.
- Hospice care is for end-of-life support, generally when treatment ends.
- Both focus on quality of life, not curing illness.
- Curantis offers non-medical services to support these care journeys at home.
What Is Hospice and Palliative Care?
Many people confuse hospice care with palliative care, and while they share some goals, they are not the same.
Palliative Care
Palliative care can begin at any time after a serious diagnosis—whether or not a cure is possible. It focuses on:
- Pain and symptom management
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Supporting mental and emotional well-being
- Working alongside curative treatment
It is ideal for people living with conditions such as cancer, heart failure, ALS, Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s disease.
Hospice Care
Hospice care typically begins when a person is no longer pursuing treatment and has a life expectancy of six months or less. The goal is comfort, not cure.
Hospice care focuses on:
- End-of-life pain control
- Emotional and spiritual support
- Family guidance and counseling
- Preparing for the final stages with dignity
Hospice vs Palliative Care: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Palliative Care | Hospice Care |
| Timing | Any time during illness | Final 6 months (or less) of life |
| Curative Treatment | Can be combined with treatment | Treatment has ended |
| Focus | Symptom relief, quality of life | Comfort and dignity near end-of-life |
| Location | Hospital, home, or care facility | Primarily at home or in hospice facilities |
Understanding hospice vs palliative care helps families make confident, timely decisions. Many who search for hospice care near me find they benefit from palliative care first.
When Should Families Consider Hospice or Palliative Care?
It’s never too early to explore your options. Here are common signs that your loved one may benefit from either hospice or palliative care:
- Ongoing or uncontrolled pain
- Multiple hospital visits in recent months
- Rapid physical or cognitive decline
- Struggles with daily activities like bathing, eating, or walking
- Emotional withdrawal or caregiver fatigue
Even if you’re unsure which option is appropriate, early support can improve your loved one’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Choosing Hospice and Palliative Care in York, PA
While Curantis Home Care does not administer medical hospice services, we play a vital role in complementing hospice and palliative care through non-medical in-home services that improve safety, comfort, and emotional well-being.
Personal Care Support
Our Personal Care Services include:
- Bathing and grooming assistance
- Incontinence care
- Dressing and mobility support
- Medication reminders
Emotional and Social Care
With Companion Care, we provide:
- Meaningful conversation and companionship
- Support with hobbies, reading, and music
- Help reducing anxiety and loneliness
- Monitoring and reassuring presence
Memory Loss Support
Our Memory Care Services are particularly helpful when cognitive decline accompanies serious illness.
Veterans Care
Veterans receiving palliative care or entering hospice care may also qualify for Veterans Care benefits. We can help connect families to those resources.
Supporting Families Along the Journey
Our support is not limited to the person receiving care—we also assist families during this emotional time.
We offer:
- Flexible in-home care around your hospice team
- Respite for overwhelmed caregivers
- Trusted guidance and check-ins
- Help coordinating next steps with local hospice providers
Because compassionate care includes everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hospice and home care services work together?
Yes. Many families use Curantis for daily personal and emotional care while receiving medical hospice support.
Is palliative care only for people with cancer?
No. It benefits anyone with a serious illness—whether it’s heart disease, lung disease, or a neurological condition.
What if I’m not sure which type of care my loved one needs?
We offer consultations to help guide you toward the right level of support.
Can my family member still live at home during hospice care?
Absolutely. Hospice and palliative services can often be provided right at home, with home care services ensuring additional comfort.
Let’s Talk About What Matters Most
Facing serious illness is never easy—but having the right information and support can make it more manageable, more compassionate, and more human.
Whether your family is just beginning to explore options or is ready to transition to hospice and palliative care, Curantis Home Care is here to provide the personalized, respectful care your loved one deserves—right here in York, PA.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help.
