Meaning & Definition of word "Hospice"
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Hospice
/ˈhɒspɪs/
noun:
- 1. A facility or program that provides care and support for patients with terminal illnesses and their families, focusing on palliation and comfort rather than cure.
- Example: The hospice staff provided compassionate care to ensure the patient's final days were peaceful.
- 2. A place of shelter or rest, especially for travelers or the sick.
- Example: In medieval times, a hospice might offer refuge to weary travelers along the road.
- 3. An institution designed to care for the sick or terminally ill when recovery is not expected.
- Example: After discussing the prognosis, the doctor recommended that she consider hospice care for her mother.
Etymology
From Latin 'hospitium', meaning 'hospitality, guest house'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
hospice care:
Care provided to terminally ill patients to improve quality of life.
hospice services:
Support services offered in a hospice setting.
Related Words
palliative:
Relating to care that alleviates symptoms without curing.
caregiver:
A person who provides care for someone unable to care for themselves.