In honor of National Hospice/Palliative Care Month, Florida Hospital HospiceCare  is working to educate the community that hospice helps patients and families focus on living.

Every November, hospices across the country make a concentrated effort to raise awareness regarding the compassionate care hospice provides patients coping with life-limiting illness and their families. This year’s national “Seasons of Caring” theme reminds people that life’s final seasons can be some of the most fulfilling, especially when patients and families turn to hospice care for help.

“There’s an inaccurate perception among the American public that hospice means you’ve given up,” said J. Donald Schumacher, president and CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. “Those of us who have worked in the field have seen firsthand how hospice and palliative care can improve the quality of life. And there’s a growing body of research showing that hospice and palliative care may prolong the lives of some people who receive care.”

With more than 1.45 million patients in the U.S. receiving care from hospices annually, Florida Hospital HospiceCare says this is one important message to be aware of, not just in November, but year-round.

“November is a valuable time to raise awareness throughout our community about end-of-life care,” said JoAnne King, Florida Hospital HospiceCare Administrative Director. “But families don’t just need us in November, so we hope our message makes an impression and stays with people all year.”

Florida Hospital HospiceCare provides expert medical care to keep patients comfortable and able to enjoy time with loved ones. The hospice team answers questions, offers advice on what to expect, and helps families with the duties of being a caregiver. Florida Hospital HospiceCare can also provide emotional and spiritual support for the entire family.

“With the help of hospice care, patients and families alike can focus on what’s most important – enjoying life together and living one’s final seasons to their fullest,” said King. “It’s about the quality of life.”

For more information, contact Florida Hospital HospiceCare at (800) 404-1133 or visit www.FHHospiceCare.com.