Independence Home Health and Hospice

Hospice is a holistic medical program that focuses on the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of people with a life-limiting illness. Hospice care is provided by a team-oriented group of professionals and volunteers who offer a unique knowledge of end-of-life care. Volunteers are an important component of the Hospice team and provide support to patients and family members in their homes, assisted living facilities, or skilled nursing facilities. Volunteers also provide valuable<br />support to caregivers and family members involved with the patient. Volunteers can choose what they feel comfortable doing between direct patient volunteering, indirect volunteering such as office work, or both. <br /><br />Volunteer activities may include:<br />Volunteers can provide emotional support and companionship<br />Perform tasks such as running errands and transportation<br />Paint nails <br />Offer respite care for loved ones and caregivers<br />Read books or write letters, play games and tell stories<br />Play music and/or sing<br />Help with light household tasks/ Meal preparation<br />Record life histories<br /><br />There are also specialty volunteers whose talents help in unique ways<br />Bereavement volunteers provide calls and visits to survivors, and assist with memorial services and support groups.<br />Interpreter volunteer become a translator for a patient who speaks another language.<br />Complimentary therapy volunteers are skilled at physical therapy, massage, art or music therapy, or journaling.<br />Outreach volunteers speak to the community on topics related to hospice care.<br />Pet therapy volunteers have animals that provide socialization, comfort, and joyful memories.<br />Volunteers who served in the military can bring a special knowledge about military life and culture to veterans and their families.<br />Tuck-In-Call volunteer checks in with patients and their families over the phone to make sure the patient has enough supplies and medications for the weekend.<br />Vigil volunteers are available upon request to provide support to patients and families during the final days and hours of life.<br /><br />In addition to direct patient care, volunteers can provide important administrative assistance to Independence Hospice,<br />such as:<br />Answering the office phone<br />Preparing materials, assembling admit packets/ gift packages and completing mailings<br />Filing<br />Helping with computer and website functions<br /><br />Responsibilities:<br />Volunteers are expected to visit assigned patients along with writing a visit note for every visit.<br />When volunteers are unable to make a visit, they need to report to the Volunteer Coordinator immediately.<br />Volunteers are expected to complete orientation training, background check, quarterly trainings and a yearly evaluation.<br /><br /><br /><a href="%20independencehealthservices.com"> independencehealthservices.com</a>