Hospice Care Health Article

Meditation

—Meditation is a technique in which the individual focuses on a word or phrase to the exclusion of other thoughts. It has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.

Palliative care

—Care focused on providing comfort, not cure.

T'ai chi

—An Asian practice of breathing and slow physical movements that develops strength and reduces stress.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

• What do you think is my prognosis?
• What choices are there to manage my pain and other symptoms?
• What level of symptom management can I expect to receive?
• What types of care, conventional or alternative, would improve the quality of the time I have left?
• Will my insurance cover the care you suggest?
• If I choose hospice care, how will that affect my relationship with my doctors and treatment team?
• What kind of support is there for my family, both until I die and afterwards?