Accomplish with Kylie: Hospice Volunteers

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Hospice helps take away some of that burden of end-of-life care.

While volunteering with hospice can be challenging at times, those who take part say its rewards are unlike anything else.

"It's like going to church and I'm not a religious person by any means, but I'm spiritual. And it forces me to be in the moment." Emilie Hossick Schott, a volunteer for three years, said. "Being able to be with somebody in the last part of their life, it's just been for me, and I think anyone else that has done it, such an honor."

Volunteers can help through patient and family support by providing one-to-one companionship to patients. This might be sitting quietly and reading to a patient, playing games, taking strolls or listening to music.

Family members who live out of state, or those who are not able to visit as often as they would like, appreciate knowing that someone is providing time with their loved one.

Volunteers also provide caregivers a short break. This allows the loved one a chance to run errands, attend a church service or simply sleep while the patient is being supported by the volunteer.

During the final days and hours of life, volunteer presence at the bedside is extremely meaningful for those patients who are alone.  Volunteers also support loved ones at this time so they are not alone during this journey.

Volunteers can also bring in animals while providing hospice care.

Pet Partners registered therapy teams bring joy to patients through the gift of their animal.

Veterans are also encouraged to volunteer.

Veteran volunteers offer the unique ability to relate and connect with veteran patients. This connection creates an environment where life reviewing and healing may occur

Anyone interested in volunteering can visit Health Partners online for more information.