World Hospice Day: Busting common myths about hospices and palliative care
As the world marks World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, health experts remind us that hospices aren’t places to die
As the world prepares to commemorate World Hospice and Palliative Care Day on 11 October 2025, many misconceptions still surround what hospices truly represent and the kind of care they provide.
For many families, the word “hospice” brings fear and sadness, often seen as a place where people go only to die. But that’s far from the full picture.
Hospices actually play a vital role in improving quality of life, offering comfort, and supporting both patients and families through serious or life-limiting illnesses.
According to a nurse and mobile support technician who works alongside the Doctors Without Borders Organisation, Rachel Yantzi, palliative care is an approach that aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and their loved ones facing serious or terminal illnesses.
About World Hospice and Palliative Care Day
This annual observance, held on the second Saturday of October, was established to raise global awareness about the importance of hospice and palliative care.
The day also calls for better access to these essential services, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring that no one faces serious illness without comfort, dignity, and support
To shed light on the truths behind palliative care, Yantzi, shared insights from her experience in humanitarian settings.
Myth 1: Hospices are only for the elderly or cancer patients
Many people believe hospices only cater to older adults or people battling cancer. In reality, palliative care supports patients of all ages, including newborns and young children.
“People are often surprised that even babies and small children receive palliative care,” says Rachel.
“It can be very sad, but it’s also deeply rewarding to support these children and their families. By providing compassionate care, we can turn a painful experience into something that also feels meaningful and validating.”
Myth 2: Palliative care means giving up on treatment
One of the biggest misconceptions is that entering hospice care means stopping all treatment. Rachel explains that this is far from the truth.
“We spend a lot of time helping people understand that palliative care doesn’t mean abandoning treatment,” she said.
“It’s about adapting care to the patient’s condition and priorities. We never stop treatments that could benefit them, that’s very clear.”
Myth 3: Taking a loved one to a hospice means abandoning them
Entrusting a family member to hospice care can be emotionally challenging. However, doing so is not an act of abandonment; it’s a way to ensure they receive specialised care and comfort from trained professionals.
Hospice teams focus not only on managing symptoms but also on offering emotional and psychological support to both patients and their families during a difficult time.
World Hospice and Palliative Care Day is a powerful reminder that these services are not about death but about life, compassion, and dignity.
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