Both palliative and hospice care offer services that focus on providing comfort for those with serious illness. Palliative care is offered to those who may live for many years with disabling conditions, while hospice is limited to those whose prognosis is less than six months. Two approaches with the same goal, establishing comfort and symptom management in the face of great suffering.

With training, massage therapists have the ability to provide services to almost all individuals, including those considered frail or undergoing treatment for serious illness. Through skilled and compassionate touch, the massage therapist tailors their session to the needs and symptoms of their client, eliciting deep relaxation and calm, supporting the client through their illness.

Massage that adopts the philosophy of a palliative model embraces the client-patient as the center of treatment. Massage therapists join the circle of care providers, supporting the individual and their family in providing interdisciplinary support; together addressing the physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs that are unique to each individual.