This observance was first proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter in 1978, aligning with the anniversary of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), founded in 1977. Nearly fifty years later, its mission is more relevant than ever: to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to high-quality, compassionate care at the end of life.

What Hospice and Palliative Care Truly Mean

Many people are unaware that hospice and palliative care are not about giving up hope; they are about shifting the focus from curing to caring, from prolonging life to enhancing its quality.

Hospice care is designed for individuals who are in the final stages of life, typically with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease follows its usual course. It offers comprehensive medical, emotional, and spiritual support to both patients and their loved ones.

Palliative care, on the other hand, can begin at any stage of a serious illness. It works alongside curative treatment to relieve symptoms, ease pain, and provide comfort. The goal of both is the same: to empower patients to live with dignity, peace, and meaning—every step of the way.

At Royal Hospice, we witness daily how small acts of compassion can transform lives. Whether it’s a nurse offering a reassuring smile, a social worker guiding a family through difficult decisions, or a volunteer simply holding a patient’s hand, each gesture reflects our belief that every moment matters.

Honoring the Caregivers Who Make It Possible

Behind every hospice story is a team of professionals who carry out their work with grace and strength. Doctors, nurses, chaplains, social workers, aides, and volunteers all share one mission: to provide comfort and connection when it’s needed most.

This November, we honor their tireless dedication. Hospice work is both rewarding and emotionally demanding; it requires a balance of medical expertise, empathy, and resilience. These professionals often become part of a family’s most intimate moments—offering comfort in times of fear, laughter in times of pain, and peace in moments of farewell.

At Royal Hospice, our team embodies these values every day. We celebrate their commitment to helping patients live each day fully, surrounded by love and supported by care that honors the body, mind, and spirit.

Educating and Engaging the Community

National Hospice and Palliative Care Month is also about breaking the silence surrounding end-of-life conversations. Too often, families wait until the final days to learn about hospice care. By fostering open, informed discussions, we can help people make choices that align with their values long before a crisis occurs.

Throughout November, hospice organizations nationwide—including Royal Hospice—host community events, educational workshops, and remembrance ceremonies. These activities bring people together to share experiences, learn about available services, and celebrate the lives of those who have passed.

Here are a few ways you can get involved this month:

• Attend a local event or educational workshop to learn how hospice and palliative care can support your loved ones.
• Volunteer your time to offer companionship, write letters, or assist with community outreach programs.
• Share your story—on social media or within your community—to help normalize conversations about end-of-life care.
• Thank hospice workers or volunteers for their compassion and dedication.

Every effort, no matter how small, helps spread awareness and ensures that hospice care remains accessible to everyone who needs it.

A Legacy of Dignity and Love

Since its inception, National Hospice and Palliative Care Month has reminded us that dying is not just a medical experience, it is a deeply human one. Hospice care transforms what could be a time of fear into a time of reflection, love, and connection. Families often tell us that hospice care allowed them to focus not on loss, but on legacy—to share memories, express gratitude, and find closure together.

At Royal Hospice, we are proud to carry forward this legacy of dignity and compassion. Every patient we serve reminds us that life’s final chapter deserves the same care, attention, and respect as every other.

As we observe this important month, we invite our community to pause and reflect on what it truly means to care for one another. Together, we can continue to spread awareness, honor caregivers, and ensure that every person can live, and pass, with peace and dignity.

What Actions Should I Take Next?

If you or your loved one has been advised to consider either Palliative or Hospice care, it is important to understand the options available to you. There are many companies to choose from, but it is critically important to find a company that is ethical and truly puts quality patient care at the forefront.  Hospice Fraud is a real thing so make sure you do not feel pressured and understand all the benefits you and/or your loved one is elidable to receive.

If you’re considering hospice care or palliative care for a loved one, reach out to our team to learn more about your options. We’re here to support you during this challenging time as we believe in personalized care plans and a concierge approach to patient care.  We call it “The Royal Difference”. 

Please call or email us at (480) 626-4242 or info@royalhospice.com to see what other patients’ families say about our services as we are very proud of our 5 star google reviews.  We will provide insight over phone from our Healthcare Advisor or will plan a time that works for you to meet with the patient and their family.  We are here for you!

You can also see videos of the Hospice process and meet our team on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@royalhospice.

Our company is a proud member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), supporting ethical, high-quality end-of-life care.

Our company is ACHC Accredited, an honor granted by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), which recognizes organizations that exceed care standards. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) only grants its coveted deeming authority designation to select national accreditation organizations that consistently exceed expectations. 

Royal Hospice is also affiliated with Vital Palliative Care (www.vitalpalliative.com) and ComForCare Home Care in Scottsdale/Phoenix area of AZ.  (www.comforcare.com/scottsdale).  This enables us to provide a Continuum of Care to support family and patient’s needs.