End-of-life care is a difficult topic of conversation for most people, a conversation that frequently comes too late, during times of crisis, or the decisions are left to the family to make on behalf of a loved one. According to Jan Jones, RN, BSN, recently retired CEO of The Elizabeth Hospice in San Diego, California, having conversations and outlining end-of-life care goals is an important gift you can give to your family.

In today’s episode, Jan joins me to discuss end-of-life care at home and the important role of hospice. Hospice combines the expertise of doctors, nurses, social workers, spiritual counselors, home health aides and volunteers to create an intradisciplinary team that provides care for individuals and their families during times of life-limiting illness.

In addition, we discuss:

The many benefits of hospice care How hospice care can help extend life and improve quality of life The differences between palliative care and hospice care How to have important conversations about death and end-of-life care

Be sure to check out Help Choose Home Season 3, Episode 7 show notes and our full library of podcasts dedicated to helping families learn more about professional home care options.