Hospice care provides comprehensive grief and bereavement support to help families cope with the loss of a loved one. These services are available before, during, and after death, usually at no additional cost.
Emotional Support Before Death
- Anticipatory Grief Counseling: Helps family members process emotions as they prepare for their loved one’s passing.
- Family Support Meetings: Hospice teams (nurses, social workers, chaplains) provide guidance and education on what to expect.
- Legacy and Remembrance Activities: Some programs help families create memory books, recordings, or letters from the patient.
Bereavement Services After Death
- Grief Counseling: One-on-one or group therapy with licensed counselors or social workers.
- Support Groups: Many hospice programs offer in-person or virtual groups for shared grieving experiences.
- Spiritual Support: Chaplains or faith-based counselors assist those seeking spiritual guidance.
- Phone Check-Ins: Hospice teams may follow up with families regularly to offer emotional support.
Duration of Support
- Bereavement services typically last up to 13 months after the patient’s passing, ensuring support through major milestones like holidays and anniversaries.
- Some hospices extend services further based on family needs.
Resources & Referrals
- Educational materials on grief and coping strategies.
- Referrals to long-term mental health services if needed.