Support in Community
For clients and families who have made the decision to remain at home for as long as possible, Hospice Northwest assists by offering respite so that family members can take a break or tend to other responsibilities. If needed, a second volunteer can be assigned to meet the family's needs.
The volunteers' role may include:
- Practical assistance, such as shopping
- Accompaniment to appointments
- Outings in the community
- Social interactions
- Compassionate listening
- Advocacy
- Relief for caregivers
- Bedside support
While volunteers do not provide personal or home care, they do offer simple comfort measures, such as fluffing pillows, preparing light refreshments, assistance with feeding and grooming and help with positioning, if the client requires assistance. They also offer emotional, social and spiritual assistance in order to help their clients live their lives as fully as possible.