Aging Advisors

Article by Liisa Ogburn.

What is Hospice and Palliative Care?

Did you know hospice and palliative care are not just for the last few days of life? In fact, patients who seek services sooner often find more peace, less pain, and more “living” during the last months, weeks, and days of their lives. Also, many assume hospice care is just for cancer patients when in fact some of the most common diagnoses of hospice patients include Congestive Heart Failure, Alzheimer’s, COPD, and cancer. Having conversations about advance directives and palliative care, as well as the patient’s wishes, goes a long way toward ensuring a smoother and desirable transition along the continuum of care. Jackie Ring, PhD, RN, FACHE, NEA-BC, Vice President of Clinical Services, Chief Innovation Officer at Transitions LifeCare, answered some common questions people have.

To read the entire article, visit: https://www.wral.com/what-is-hospice-and-palliative-care-/17448696/

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

About the Author:

Liisa Ogburn is at the heart of Aging Advisors NC, bringing a rich blend of personal experience and global perspective to elder care. Raised in North Carolina with deep roots in Finland, Liisa has a unique appreciation for diverse approaches to aging, shaped by her life across different cultures including Finland, Estonia, Germany, England, Japan, and Costa Rica.

Her path into elder care consulting was deeply personal. While juggling her role as a Duke University educator and caring for her father-in-law and three young children, Liisa started sharing her family’s journey through articles for The New York Times and later, over 300 posts for WRAL Raleigh on everything from handling loss to choosing the right elder care options.

A teacher at heart, Liisa thrives on empowering others with knowledge. She offers her expertise in presentations to various groups—from churches to professional firms—and writes extensively, reaching audiences far and wide. Her credentials include certifications in geriatric care and a special certification from Brown University to teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, reinforcing her belief that calm minds make sound decisions.