How Volunteering for a Hospice Can Be Rewarding

The generosity and passion of volunteers is an integral part of hospice care work. Volunteers are drawn to this work as a way to give back to their community and to experience the many rewards that being a hospice care volunteer offers. Here are just a few of them.

It provides opportunities for social connections

A major aspect of hospice care is connecting with people—listening to their thoughts, sharing in their memories, and lending a sympathetic ear to their fears and anxieties. The bonds that are forged through these connections are unlike any other and many volunteers report that these are some of the most meaningful experiences of their lives.

It fosters greater self-knowledge

Caring for and supporting home hospice care patients who are approaching the end of life tends to encourage deep reflection and personal development. Many volunteers find that their sense of self is much clearer and more grounded after working in a hospice environment.

It can boost happiness

There is nothing quite like knowing that you’re making a real difference in someone else’s life. The happiness and satisfaction that comes from providing comfort and care to others is one of the most enriching and rewarding aspects of being a hospice care volunteer.

It supports spiritual growth

Since death and dying are normally taboo topics, it’s not often that a person gets a chance to deal with these spiritual realities on a regular basis. Outpatient hospice care volunteers have the opportunity to approach death and dying in a way that is real, honest, and ultimately offers significant spiritual growth.

What do hospice volunteers do?

Hospice volunteers do not provide medical care. Rather, they are a source of social support, keeping patients company and making their day-to-day life easier by performing chores and errands the patient can no longer do for themselves. Some volunteers also assist with administrative work, such as making phone calls, keeping records, and performing data entry. 
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If you’re interested in becoming a hospice volunteer, please reach out to us. We can connect you with an opportunity that may become a deeply meaningful and rewarding experience in your life.