The Ragtag Daily Prompt today is “Hospice”, so I just had to do a quick post! One of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done was to volunteer for a hospice organization. I would visit patients, get to know them, and eventually present them with a book of their life story. Unfortunately, COVID caused a long delay in Hospice volunteering because extra caution needed to be taken with these fragile individuals. I moved on to a new volunteer opportunity, but I still miss the connection I felt with Hospice.
Hospice care focuses on a person’s quality of life near the end of it. Pain is often managed, and attention is given to emotional and spiritual needs. Finding joy in little things becomes easier for the patient to concentrate on. They spend time in quiet reflection and in eager participation of things they still enjoy.
Hospice need not be a difficult word. Death proceeded by as much comfort as possible, dignity, important objects, memories, and those we love is an achievable goal and one many of us strive for. If you are looking for a way to help others, please consider volunteering for your local Hospice organization. You will find it a hugely gratifying experience!
Click here for my section of Hospice stories.
Grammy Writes 
Gorgeous!
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Thanks so much!
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My pleasures. 🤓
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Familiar to so many of us. Thanks giving for the work all volunteers do.
Gwen.
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Yes, volunteers help the skilled workers do what they need to do.
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I will always be grateful for hospice after my father-in-law’s experience. In the hospital beforehand: utter misery and pain. In hospice: utter contentment and comfort. As you say, hospice a dignified and deserved form of departure.
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I know not every family has a positive experience with Hospice, but I do believe it is so more often than not. I’m glad it was for your family.
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Hospice seems a scary, somber place.
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“Hospice” must vary in different places. Where I’m from, “Hospice” is a service, not a place. The service can take place in ones own home, a care facility, or a hospital. And yes, it’s usually scary, but that’s what hospice tries to do… make things less scary for the patient and the family. Thanks so much for the comment.
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Hospice nurse here. Thank you so much for being a volunteer. It is rewarding and provides hope and comfort to whom you serve. I’ve been working for 13 years as a hospice nurse. It’s the best job ever.
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Bless you for all you do for patients and their families. They deserve so much. 13 years is a long time!
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