Bridging care and support: Social services in hospice

Bridging care and support: Social services in hospice
Palliative Care and Social Practice; by M. Courtney Hughes, Erin Vernon, Magdalena McKeon, Michelle L. Foster; 10/25
We recently surveyed informal caregivers of hospice patients nationwide who were currently caring for a hospice patient or had cared for one within the prior 2 years about the types of social services they found valuable... [Most frequently mentioned social service categories included: counseling and support groups, personal care assistance, and meals.] The above survey findings and our experience in conducting studies with informal caregivers of hospice patients over the last decade highlight the vital role a variety of social services play as hospice patients and their families navigate the emotional, practical, and logistical challenges that accompany end-of-life care. Services such as counseling, care coordination, resource navigation, and support groups help families cope with the stress, grief, and uncertainty that often arise during this time. Social workers and related professionals provide a bridge between the clinical team and the family, ensuring that the patient’s needs are met while also addressing the well-being of informal caregivers. This holistic approach helps families feel supported as they make decisions that honor their loved one’s wishes.
Publisher's note: This article is a result of a survey promoted earlier this year in Hospice & Palliative Care Today, and other sources. Thank you to all who participated!