Research has shown that nearly 80% of deaths occur in health care organizations and more specifically that 60% of deaths occur in hospitals. Most people fear reaching the end of their lives hooked up to machines and would prefer a natural death in familiar surroundings with loved ones. Yet many feel they have no control over this.

But people can take control. Families who discuss their health care options while they are healthy will more likely receive the care and treatment they desire at the end of life. That’s why the United Hospice Foundation focuses on raising public awareness and understanding of the Hospice philosophy and Advance Directives. The Foundation focuses on getting people the information and tools they need to make their own decisions as to what is “right” for them at the end of life.

And following the death of a loved one, the Foundation provides comfort and support for families through Peer Counseling, Support Groups and other special programs.

Those who tap into Foundation resouces learn to make the death experience a beautiful celebration of life rather than a fearful, guilt-ridden, and painful process.