Hospice Social Workers: Providing Support to Patients and Families

Our social workers focus on the individual needs of each patient and his or her family. The work they do varies in each setting, with each patient and within each family. They also have great knowledge and expertise in caregiving.

A Hospice of the Red River Valley social worker shares, “When the unthinkable happens and people are thrust into caregiving roles, they can’t help but be life changing experiences. Caregiving can bring out the best and worst in people. But, after the initial shock and disbelief settle, I’ve found most caregivers find the strength within to get through physical and emotional challenges that come with caring for a loved one, and do so with grace and humor. We’re here to provide support for caregivers during what can be a very stressful time.”

What do hospice social workers do?
Hospice of the Red River Valley social workers are trained to assist patients and their caregivers during the end of life journey, and help in countless tangible and intangible ways. Here’s a sampling of how they provide support:

  • Assist patients in exploring non-medical ways of relieving pain and anxiety.
  • Assist patients in developing an individualized plan of care.
  • Educate a patient’s family so they may feel confident in their roles as caregivers.
  • Provide patients and their caregivers with advanced directives.
  • Allow patients and their families to discuss their concerns and fears openly and without judgment.
  • Identify community services that fit each individual situation, and assist with setting up services, such as meals on wheels, lifeline, and others.
  • Assist patients and caregivers in meeting their goals.
  • Help develop a plan if the patient is unable to be alone.
  • Keep family updated on a patient’s current status.
  • Provide caregivers with reading materials to support their role, including information to help them feel prepared for the time of death.
  • Guide patients in a transition from one living environment to another, or assist with facility placement.
  • Help patients and caregivers obtain financial assistance or resources.
  • Watch for and assist with safety concerns in a patient’s home.
  • Help fill gaps between what a patient needs and what is available to him or her.
  • Advocate for patients’ needs.
  • Help patients and caregivers understand the role of hospice and the hospice team.
  • Assist caregivers in finding support to maximize their strengths.
  • Help caregivers develop a plan for the time of death.
  • Provide age appropriate education and interventions to minor children.
  • Provide activities for children to allow them to express their feelings.
  • Offer patients and caregivers all of the information related to their care.

If you have questions about the role of a hospice social worker, or about hospice care, visit our website or call 800-237-4629.

About Hospice of the Red River Valley
In 1981, Hospice of the Red River Valley was founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality end-of-life care. We fulfill our nonprofit mission by providing medical, emotional, personal and spiritual care, as well as grief support to our patients, their families and caregivers during a tender time in life. Our staff helps those we serve experience more meaningful moments through exceptional hospice care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, wherever a patient calls home. The organization serves more than 40,000 square miles in North Dakota and Minnesota, including in and around Bismarck, Detroit Lakes, Devils Lake, Fargo, Fergus Falls, Grand Forks, Lisbon, Thief River Falls, Valley City and many more communities. Hospice of the Red River Valley offers round-the-clock availability via phone, prompt response times and same-day admissions, including evenings, weekends and holidays. Contact us anytime at 800-237-4629 or hrrv.org.

 

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