The North Simcoe Muskoka Hospice Palliative Care Network (NSMHPCN) provides a dedicated, compassionate, holistic palliative approach to care for all. NSMHPCN supports the provision of exceptional hospice palliative care and end-of-life care through partnerships, innovative programs and knowledge exchange.
We Are Here to Help Hospice Palliative Care Support:
Our mission at the North Simcoe Muskoka Hospice Palliative Care Network (NSMHPCN) is to support the provision of exceptional hospice palliative care and end-of-life care through partnerships, innovative programs and knowledge exchange. We envision a community where the experience of hospice palliative care and end-of-life care honours each individual and their choices. We believe that with our aging population, this work has never been more important than it is today.
Monthly Hot Tips
Food and Fluid at End-of-Life
As the body prepares for the end of life, it’s natural for appetite and thirst to decrease. Most people stop eating and drinking as their body no longer needs or can process food and fluids. While this can be difficult for families to witness, it’s not usually painful or distressing for the person.
Normal Changes
- Less Hunger and Thirst: The body needs less energy.
- Swallowing Becomes Difficult: Muscles weaken.
- Slowed Digestion: Eating may cause discomfort.
- No Suffering: Lack of food or fluid doesn’t usually cause pain.
How Families Can Help
- Keep the Mouth Comfortable: Use water-based gels, swabs, or damp cloths.
- Offer Small Sips or Favorite Foods: Only if the person can swallow and wants them.
- Don’t Force Food or Fluids: Respect their wishes.
- Talk to the Care Team: Ask about what’s best in your loved one’s situation.
Things to Know
- Artificial hydration rarely improves comfort or extends life.
- It doesn’t relieve dry mouth—mouth care is better.
- In some cases, fluids can worsen symptoms like swelling or nausea.
The focus at this stage should be comfort, dignity, and honouring the person’s choices.
Mission
To support the provision of exceptional hospice palliative care and end-of-life care through partnerships, innovative programs and knowledge exchange.
Vision
A community where the experience of hospice palliative care and end of life care honours each individual and their choices.
Values
A community where the experience of hospice palliative care and end of life care honours each individual and their choices.
The following values were to guide our organization:
Respect: We recognize the inherent worth of every person and their choices.
Empathy: We are compassionate collaborative and understanding in our approach.
Inclusivity: We honour and value diversity and promote inclusiveness within our communities.
Integrity: We act with honesty, strong ethical principles and in compliance with provincial standards.
Inclusion Statement
The North Simcoe Muskoka Hospice Palliative Care Network is committed to creating and maintaining an environment free of discrimination. All individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and have equal opportunities. Our programs, services and opportunities will be accessible regardless of age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, receipt of public assistance, record of offences, sex, or sexual orientation.
