Prince George, B.C. – The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association is out to dispel some of the myths that exist about hospice and the services provided  during this, National Hospice Palliative Care Week, May 4th-10th.

Association President Laurie Anne O’Brien says "People tend to think that hospice palliative care is offered only for seniors with advanced illness – which is not the case.  In fact, hospice palliative care is provided to people of all ages – from children, teens, to younger, older and senior adults.”

O’Brien says Canada already has six freestanding children's hospices to help meet the need. “No age is exempt from receiving a life threatening diagnosis, to being prepared for and eventually having to face the final stage of life. We need to continue to advocate for and make sure that all people have access to quality skilled hospice palliative care services, no matter their advanced diagnosis, age or location."

She explains that these services include physical, psychological, social, spiritual and practical support for people with life-threatening illnesses and for their families. It focuses on what people need and want at any given time, both prior to death and during bereavement.

Hospice palliative care can be offered in a variety of settings, including the home. "According to a recent survey, 75% of Canadians would prefer to die at home, but only 51% believe they will be able to.  Increasing awareness of hospice palliative care services and dispelling the myths around them will help improve access to these valuable services where Canadians want them – in their home," added Nadine Henningsen, Executive Director of the Canadian Home Care Association.

For more information you can go to the association's website at www.chpca-acsp.org