Vigil Volunteers Needed-support hospice patients in their greatest hour of need!

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Compassionate Care Hospice is seeking Vigil Volunteers to sit at the bedside of a patient who is in his or her last hours of life. A hospice Vigil Volunteer is a special and fulfilling opportunity. Vigil volunteers can offer support by providing respite for family members (allowing them time to take a break) or simply being present, helping to create peaceful surroundings through activities such as playing soft music.

Our Vigil Volunteer program is more of an "on-call" opportunity; vigil support is based upon request of a patient's family or caregiving team. Scheduling of a vigil takes into consideration the volunteer's location and availability. A 2-4 hour vigil is preferable.

Applicants must attend an orientation to learn about the philosophy of hospice, the role of a Vigil Volunteer, and skills related to caring for and communicating with hospice patients and their families. Emphasis is on providing comfort during the dying process.

Requirements for Vigil Volunteers: 18 years of age or older, must agree to a background and reference check, must be appropriately coping with any personal losses, sound judgment regarding issues of death and dying, and ability to work independently with indirect supervision. Other necessary characteristics of a Vigil Volunteer include: flexibility, empathy, sensitivity to issues around death and dying, compassion, a willingness to help others and an ability to work as a member of the hospice team. Reliable transportation is a must! References, medical clearances including a TB screening, and a comprehensive background check are required.

Compassionate Care Hospice provides service to patients, either in their own homes or in nursing/assisted-living facilities, throughout Eastern Massahusetts. For more information, please contact helen.burgoyne@amedisys.com