In the medical community, an “ill” person needs and will receive aggressive medical treatment. That may not be appropriate or desired for the elderly person who is seeking a gentle, dignified and natural passing. Knowing  your choices, long before you or your loved ones have to make them, will make clear your wishes as well as help the medical professionals honor them.

So what is palliative and hospice care?

Here is a helpful link regarding palliative care:  http://www.webmd.com/palliative-care/palliative-care-topic-overview

Here is a link comparing hospice and palliative care:  http://www.caregiverslibrary.org/caregivers-resources/grp-end-of-life-issues/hsgrp-hospice/hospice-vs-palliative-care-article.aspx