Direct Care

The Direct Care Volunteer serves as an additional source of support for patients and families coping with a terminal illness and end-of-life issues. Support is provided in a variety of ways, including offering companionship and socialization to patients, providing respite for stressed caregivers, and making tuck-in calls to patients and their families. The Direct Care Volunteer must possess the ability to actively listen and communicate compassionately with patients, families, and caregivers facing end-of-life issues. He or she must be able to work collaboratively as part of a team with family members and hospice staff. The volunteer should demonstrate respect for patient and family belief systems, emotional maturity, and sensitivity. He or she must be dependable and have access to reliable transportation. Additionally, the volunteer must have an understanding of hospice philosophy and goals and be willing to participate regularly in peer support and continuing education meetings.