Loneliness and isolation can be significant challenges for those dealing with a serious illness and facing their end-of-life chapter. Volunteers come to directly counteract these feelings, providing consistent, friendly visits and genuine human connection. Their companionship is meant to help patients feel seen, heard and valued.
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Trained Volunteer Services
Trained Volunteer Services
We understand the importance of compassionate companionship and emotional support during the challenging journey of a terminal illness. Our dedicated volunteers play a vital role in providing company and comfort to both patients and their families. Learn more about the valuable services offered by our trained volunteers below.
Companionship
Our trained volunteers offer companionship to patients, providing a comforting presence and engaging in meaningful conversations. They are there to lend a listening ear, share stories, or simply sit quietly with the patient, offering their support and understanding. Our volunteers create a warm and compassionate environment, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Supportive Presence
Facing a terminal illness can be emotionally overwhelming for both patients and their families. Our volunteers provide much-needed emotional support, offering a sympathetic and empathetic presence. They understand the challenges that arise during this difficult time and are trained to provide a comforting presence, offering a shoulder to lean on and a source of encouragement.
Our volunteers are there to support patients and their families in whatever way they can. They can accompany patients to medical appointments, provide transportation for errands, or assist with practical tasks around the home. Their supportive presence helps ease the burden for families, allowing them to focus on spending quality time with their loved ones.
Bereavement Support
Our trained volunteers extend their support to families during the bereavement period. They understand that the grieving process continues after the loss of a loved one. Our volunteers offer compassionate listening, practical assistance, and emotional support to individuals and families as they navigate the stages of grief and healing.
Specialized Skills
Our volunteers bring a diverse range of skills and talents to Shiloh Hospice & Palliative Care. Some volunteers may offer specialized services such as music therapy, art therapy, pet therapy, or massage therapy. These specialized skills aim to provide additional comfort and support to patients, promoting relaxation, emotional well-being, and pain relief.
Training and Support
To ensure the highest level of care, our volunteers undergo comprehensive training programs. They receive instruction in areas such as active listening, effective communication, empathy, and understanding the unique needs of patients and families facing a terminal illness. We also provide ongoing support and supervision to our volunteers to ensure they have the resources and guidance they need.
Learn More About Our Trained Volunteers
At Shiloh Hospice & Palliative Care, we recognize the invaluable contributions of our trained volunteers. They provide essential company and emotional support to both patients and their families. Whether it’s through companionship, emotional support, respite care, or specialized skills, our volunteers are dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for those in our care. Contact us today to learn more about how our trained volunteers can provide comfort and support to you and your loved ones.
FAQs About Our Trained Volunteer Services in Illinois
Can volunteers support patients during medical appointments?
Our volunteers can provide a supportive presence by accompanying patients to their medical appointments. While they do not provide medical advice, their presence may offer comfort and reassurance during what can be a stressful time.
How do volunteers enhance the overall hospice care experience?
Volunteers improve the hospice experience by focusing on the more “human” side of care. While the medical team manages patients’ physical symptoms and medical needs, volunteers tend to the heart and spirit. They bring joy, reduce feelings of isolation and provide a comforting presence to enrich the final chapter of a person’s life.
Why do some volunteers have specialized skills?
Our diverse group of skilled volunteers offers patients the opportunity to engage in additional therapies, including music therapy, art therapy, massage therapy and pet therapy. We believe that these services can provide comfort, promote relaxation and improve emotional well-being.
Are there any costs associated with Shiloh Hospice's volunteer services?
No. Our trained volunteer services are provided to patients and families as part of their hospice care plan. Volunteers make up a core part of the care team and help us further our commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate hospice care.
