Does end-of-life care at home only happen in the last few days?
Not always. End-of-life care often becomes more relevant in the final weeks or days, but there is not always a precise starting point. Some people decline gradually, while others change more quickly. A person may begin to sleep more, eat and drink less, become weaker, or need much more support with comfort and daily care. Professionals and families may then start talking about end-of-life care at home, even if the exact timeline is uncertain. The main difference is the overall focus. When care shifts more fully towards comfort, dignity, familiar surroundings, and emotional support in the final stage of life, it is often described as end-of-life care. Every person’s journey is different, so the timing can vary.