Address
Prepare
For the process of dying and being aware of the steps needed to take that journey.
Cope
With the challenges of accepting the loss and grief that come during a life limiting and terminal illness.
How we can help
Elk Valley Hospice can provide a certified End-of-Life companion, trained to offer compassionate physical, emotional and spiritual support. Hospice companions are there to help clients and their families through their journey with living and dying, while promoting dignity and quality of life for the client. Hospice companions listen, support, comfort, and walk with clients and their families during life’s biggest challenges.
We do not hasten nor postpone death. We simply provide the care & support needed to honour the individual’s choices.
Hospice volunteers are trained to help provide the following services to clients.
- Empathetic listening
- Respite (a break for caregivers)
- Emotional support
- Grief support
- Awareness of end of life issues
- Support a dignified death
- Volunteer End-of-Life Companions visit with patients and their families, often to give the primary caregiver a break. Volunteers allow patients to take the lead during visits. They are willing to chat or to listen; to read to someone or listen to music; or do almost any light task the patient or caregiver requests. Sometimes a volunteer might simply sit quietly while a patient sleeps in the next room, or talk with family members who just need a listening ear. Volunteers also may shop for groceries or run errands for the patient and caregiver.
- Volunteer End-of-Life Companions are experienced volunteers who sit in shifts with actively dying patients who have no family members present, or when requested. They might read for the patient, or play soothing music or simply be there as a caring presence.
- Bereavement Companions provide direct and indirect support to the bereaved. They might provide telephone support, assemble mailings, assist with bereavement support groups, or help with memorial services.
Where do we help?
To make a referral for hospice or bereavement companionship:
Elk Valley Hospice services are free of charge and are supplemental to the palliative care services provided by your health authority.
A family member or a health care professional can, with the client’s permission, contact hospice to request our services. Our Coordinator will call to discuss the various kinds of support necessary to assist the patient and family through this difficult time.
Hospice values life and accepts death as a normal process. We stress living fully with dignity until the very end of life by providing social, emotional and spiritual comfort through the final stages of illness, at the time of death and during bereavement.
To make a referral, please download the Referral Form below, complete and email to elkvalleyhospice@gmail.com. Referrals can also be submitted via:
-
Phone to (250) 423-4453 Ext. 38109. If you reach the message bank please leave a message and we will return your call.
-
Mail addressed to Elk Valley Hospice Coordinator, Box 670, Fernie BC V0B 1M0
-
Hand delivery to our secure mailbox located at the Elk Valley Hospice Kiosk located in the Elk Valley Hospital.