Role of Physical therapy in palliative/hospice care includes which of the following?

• A. Assist the patient in maintaining functional abilities for as long as they possibly can.
• B. Increase caregiver burden
• C. Focus solely on respiratory therapy
• D. Limit to inpatient hospital settings only

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that physical therapy in palliative and hospice care focuses on preserving function and comfort to maximize independence and quality of life for as long as possible. A physical therapist works on mobility, balance, safe transfers, energy conservation, pain reduction, and gentle strengthening tailored to what the patient can do and what matters most to them. By helping the person stay as independent as possible, PT supports daily activities, reduces discomfort, and can lessen caregiver strain because patients need less assistance for everyday tasks.

The setting is not limited to a hospital. PT can be provided at home through home-based hospice, in outpatient clinics, or in inpatient or skilled facilities, depending on where the patient is receiving care and what they need. This broader approach is central to palliative care, which aims to meet the patient where they are and help maintain function and comfort in the most appropriate context.

Options that suggest focusing only on respiratory therapy or that constrain therapy to inpatient hospital settings don’t align with how PT is used in palliative care, which is about a broader range of functional goals and flexible delivery across different care settings.