27 Jun Nutrition and Hydration in Hospice: What Families Should Know
Learn how hospice addresses nutrition and hydration at the end of life, and what families need to know about comfort, care, and changing needs.
One of the most emotional challenges for families during hospice care is watching a loved one eat and drink less. It’s natural to want to nourish and sustain someone you love, but in the final stages of life, the body’s needs change.
Understanding the role of nutrition and hydration in hospice can help families make informed, compassionate decisions that prioritise comfort.
Why Appetite Changes at the End of Life
As the body begins to shut down, it no longer processes food and fluids in the same way. Common changes include:
- Decreased appetite
- Difficulty swallowing
- Feeling full quickly
- Nausea or fatigue after eating
- Disinterest in favourite foods
These changes are not a sign of giving up — they are a natural part of the dying process.
What Is Hospice’s Approach to Nutrition and Hydration?
Hospice care focuses on comfort over cure. This includes allowing the body to slow down naturally without forcing food or fluids that may cause discomfort.
The Hospice Team May Recommend:
- Small sips of water, ice chips, or moist swabs for mouth comfort
- Favorite comfort foods in small amounts, if desired
- Avoiding feeding tubes unless specifically requested
- Education for families on what to expect
The goal is to respect the patient’s wishes and avoid interventions that may prolong suffering or lead to complications.
Is It Okay to Stop Feeding or Hydration?
Yes — in hospice, withholding food or fluids is not neglect. It’s about honouring the body’s natural process and focusing on peace and dignity.
Forcing food or hydration late in life can lead to:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling or fluid overload
- Increased discomfort
Families often need reassurance that not eating is not painful for the patient — in most cases, it brings relief.
How Families Can Support Loved Ones
Even without eating or drinking, families can stay connected and supportive in meaningful ways:
- Offer mouth swabs, lip balm, or a cool cloth
- Sit quietly and hold hands
- Play soft music or read aloud
- Respect the patient’s cues — they often know what feels right
Emotional Support Around Food and Loss
Food is deeply emotional. Many families associate it with love, comfort, and care. Letting go of the role of “feeding” can be painful.
Hospice teams provide guidance and emotional support to help families understand that presence, not food, is the most loving gift you can offer at this time.
Contact us at Angel Wings Hospice https://angelwingshospice.org/contact-us/ to learn how we guide families through end-of-life nutrition and hydration with knowledge, empathy, and compassion.
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