OSF Hospice

Description

Volunteer services are an integral and important component of the hospice team's plan of care. Hospice volunteers choose their volunteer role they are most comfortable with. During training, volunteers learn about hospice, the OSF team, death and dying, signs and symptoms of diagnosis, how to talk with the patients and their loved ones, religious and cultural diversity, and grief issues. Training classes are held on an as needed basis.

Volunteers are used in many different ways, from spending time with patients and their families, running errands, buying groceries, staying with the patient so the caregiver can go to appointments and more. They also assist with clerical duties, tracking data, assisting with memorial services, helping at foundation events or health fairs, or sending out cards and letters to families in our bereavement program. They shovel snow, plow sidewalks and driveways, and do yard work. Volunteers also visit patients in their homes or in the nursing home to read, pray, and socialize with them.