The “Hospice Volunteer Training” series consists of five parts and provides a comprehensive understanding of hospice care. Intended for individuals aspiring to be hospice volunteers, each segment of the series explores essential elements of hospice support from grasping the hospice philosophy to acquiring practical volunteering skills. The curriculum incorporates hospice history, bereavement and grief, family dynamics, communication, and volunteer responsibilities, to ensure a holistic educational journey.

Skills You’ll Learn

1. Navigate the Hospice Journey: Gain insights into hospice history, philosophy, and the range of services offered.
2. Understand the End-of-Life Experience: Learn about dying, death, loss, grief, and how to provide compassionate support.
3. Effective Communication: Master the art of active listening and honoring diversity in hospice settings.
4. Practical Volunteer Skills: Acquire knowledge about volunteer roles, responsibilities, and the importance of self-care.

Hospice Volunteer Training Course Description

Hospice Volunteer Training: Part 1 – Hospice History, Philosophy, and Services

• Understanding Hospice: Dive into the origins and evolution of hospice care. Explore the hospice philosophy of care, its significance in the healthcare landscape, and the varied services that hospices provide.
• Role of a Hospice Volunteer: Learn the vital role volunteers play within the hospice team and their impact on patients and their families.

Hospice Volunteer Training: Part 2 – Understanding Dying, Death, Loss, and Grief

• Navigating End-of-Life Transitions: Unpack the complexities of dying and death. Grasp patients’ and their loved ones’ emotional and spiritual support needs during these challenging times.
• Bereavement Support: Understand the stages of grief and how to offer adequate companionship and emotional support to those in bereavement.

Hospice Volunteer Training: Part 3 – Understanding Families — Family Systems and Dynamics

• Family-Centered Care: Gain insights into family systems and dynamics in end-of-life scenarios. Learn how to tailor your support to meet the unique needs of each family.
• Building Effective Relationships: Strategies for building trust and providing support that respects families’ diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Hospice Volunteer Training: Part 4 – Communication, Listening and Honoring Diversity

• Communication Skills: Master the art of active listening and empathetic communication, which are crucial for providing effective hospice care.
• Cultural Competence: Understand the importance of honoring diversity and inclusivity in hospice settings.

Hospice Volunteer Training: Part 5 – Volunteer Roles, Responsibilities, and Caring for Yourself

• Volunteer Roles Explained: Learn about the various volunteer roles and responsibilities and how each contributes to the hospice care team.
• Self-care for Volunteers: Strategies for maintaining personal well-being and avoiding burnout while serving others.

How to Get Started with Hospice Volunteer Training

Hospice Volunteer Training is ideal for anyone looking to become a compassionate, skilled hospice volunteer.

This five-part course series is part of a yearly subscription to Continua Learning. Continua Learning delivers over 300 hospice, home health, and home care training courses and in-services in a mobile solution for easy compliance and tracking it all from one place. Contact us to set up a demo for your agency today! Elevate your expertise. Enhance patient satisfaction.

Hospice Volunteer Training Continuing Education

Hospice Volunteer Training does not offer continuing education because its target audience is nonprofessionals. 

Course Reviewer

Kathleen Webster, BSN, RN, CRRN, brings nearly four decades of nursing experience to her role. Earning her BSN in 1984 and CRRN in 2012, she began her career in acute rehabilitation and later specialized in hospice and home health care for over 25 years. 

A seasoned educator, Kathleen has authored numerous eLearning courses and led in-service training programs. As a former community care program director, she trained in-home aides and is committed to inspiring quality care and compassion in hospice and home care.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hospice Volunteer Training

What is the commitment required to complete the Hospice Volunteer Training?

The training is flexible and designed to accommodate various schedules. Typically, volunteers are expected to commit a few hours a month, ensuring they can balance their personal lives while providing valuable support to hospice patients.

Can I provide direct patient care after completing this training?

Yes, after completing the training, you may assist the patient with non-medical tasks. The training prepares you for direct patient contact, focusing on emotional and spiritual support and caregiver relief.

Do I need additional training for specialized hospice volunteer roles?

Some volunteer roles, like providing spiritual support or administrative assistance, may require additional training. Your volunteer coordinator will guide you on any extra modules or sessions based on your chosen role.

Is there ongoing education and support for volunteers after initial training?

Absolutely! High-quality hospices encourage ongoing education and continuous support to ensure volunteers feel comfortable and skilled. This includes mentorship and ongoing training sessions to enhance your capabilities.

How does this course ensure quality of life for hospice patients?

Our course emphasizes the importance of providing comfort and support to enhance the quality of life for hospice patients. It includes training on recognizing and addressing patients’ emotional, spiritual, and physical needs.

Can I volunteer in my county, or do I need to travel?

Volunteering opportunities are typically available in your county, allowing you to serve within your community. Reach out to local hospices, and they will help match you with volunteering opportunities.

What kind of satisfaction can I expect from volunteering in hospice?

Volunteering in hospice offers profound personal satisfaction. You’ll make a significant difference in the lives of people facing end-of-life challenges, providing them and their families with much-needed support and companionship.