Dr. Kurt Merkelz, MD, FAAHPM, Chief Medical Officer at Compassus, in Brentwood, TN, was recently featured in several major media outlets, including BuzzFeed, Yahoo Life, and Hospice & Palliative Care Today, for his insights on the emotional significance of food in end-of-life care.
In a HuffPost article published in December, Dr. Merkelz shared his expertise on how food plays an emotional role as patients near the end of life. He explained that food can connect patients to cherished memories and loved ones, offering comfort even when physical appetite diminishes. “Food often plays an emotional role in the last stages of life,” Dr. Merkelz said. “Some patients may reminisce about favorite meals or foods that connect them to family or heritage, even if they can’t eat much.”
The HuffPost article was widely picked up by BuzzFeed and Yahoo Life, where Dr. Merkelz’s reflections were highlighted. BuzzFeed is a digital news and entertainment platform, while Yahoo Life focuses on health, wellness, and lifestyle topics. Both outlets shared the article, emphasizing how food can serve as a meaningful connection to the past during the final stages of life.
Additionally, Hospice & Palliative Care Today—a daily publication focused on serious illness and end-of-life care—featured an excerpt from the HuffPost article, further spreading Dr. Merkelz’s message on the emotional power of comfort foods.
These recent media features underscore Compassus’ commitment to compassionate, person-centered care. Dr. Merkelz’s expert insights highlight how simple, everyday experiences like sharing a favorite meal can offer deep emotional comfort to patients and families during one of life’s most challenging times.
To learn more about how food provides comfort and connection in end-of-life care, read the full article on HuffPost, here or visit Compassus for more information.
