…And Why They Matter to You and Your Loved Ones

When people first hear the word hospice, it can feel overwhelming or even frightening. But hospice isn’t about giving up—it’s about living fully, with dignity, comfort, and the support you and your family need.

Unity Hospice and Palliative Care, we’ve been supporting patients and families through this journey for 30+ years.  As a family-owned provider, we believe every person deserves care and support that feels personal, compassionate and supports the dignity of everyone involved.

Here are 10 important things you may not know about hospice care—and why they make such a difference for patients and families.

1. Hospice isn’t just for the final days.

Many people think hospice is only for the last days or weeks of life, but patients can be eligible when a physician believes they have six months or less to live.  Many family members share that they wish their loved one had started much sooner on hospice.  Staring earlier means more time for comfort, connection, and meaningful times together.

Learn more about when to consider hospice care

2. Hospice comes to wherever you call home.

Care is provided wherever you call home—your house, an assisted living community, or a nursing home. Unity’s team brings medications, medical equipment, and expert support right to you, so you can stay in the place you love, surrounded by the people who matter most.

3. It’s covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance.

The cost of hospice care is almost always fully covered. That includes:

• Regular visits from nurses and aides

• Medications for pain and comfort

• Medical equipment like hospital beds or oxygen

• Support from social workers, chaplains, and volunteers

What you can expect from Unity Hospice and Palliative Care »

4. You don’t have to give up your doctor.

Your primary physician can stay involved in your care. Unity works closely with your doctor to create a seamless plan that respects your wishes and keeps everyone connected.

5. Hospice supports the whole family.

Hospice isn’t only for the patient—it’s for the people who love them. Social workers, chaplains, and grief counselors are here to support family members through the challenges of caregiving, decision-making, and emotional stress.

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6. Comfort is always the priority.

Unity’s team is trained in advanced symptom management. We focus on easing:

• Pain

• Shortness of breath

• Anxiety

• Nausea 

The goal is to help each day feel calmer, more comfortable, and more manageable.

7. Certain treatments may continue.

While hospice focuses on comfort rather than cure, patients may still receive medications, oxygen, or therapies that improve their quality of life. The goal is to keep you feeling your best for as long as possible.

8. Unique life-enriching programs you might not expect

Based on availability, Unity can offer a favorite playlist through Music & Memory, the unconditional joy from Paws for Patients, soothing relief through Massage Therapy, or a tribute to Veterans through Hospice for Heroes. These added touches bring moments of meaning and warmth when they’re needed most.

9. Unity provides grief support long after a loved one dies.

Our bereavement team walks with families for over a year—offering:

• Support groups

• Grief counseling

• Help for children and teens

• Helpful materials and resources

10. Hospice helps you focus on what matters most.

From celebrating birthdays to sharing memories, hospice allows families to spend more time together. Unity’s team handles the medical care, medications, and support, so you can simply focus on being present with your loved one.