Chaplains are an integral part of the interdisciplinary healthcare team and are available to provide spiritual and emotional support that honors individual values, beliefs and practices. Faith communities complement healthcare systems as sources of information and support as you consider health care decisions in life-threatening situations.
Chaplains are available for prayer, spiritual counseling, and facilitation of spiritual practice; as well as to assist with ethical and end-of-life decision-making, care level discussions, advance directives, and grief support. Spiritual care recognizes the beliefs, practices and traditions that help you find comfort and meaning in your life and to provide the comprehensive support that is needed to make the most of your time together. Specifically, pastoral care may include:
Grief Support
Bereavement doesn’t start with the death of a loved one. Anticipatory grief is the realization that the end may be near. Hospice chaplains help you and your family through each stage of grief–before, during and after death.
Hospice Care
Hospice pastoral care is optional and can be started or stopped at any time. Hospice chaplains are trained to be active listeners and to comfort the people they serve by guiding them through their own questions and emotions and offering insight and inspiration when needed. They also can assist you with conceptualizing and planning a life celebration or memorial service.
Care For Family And Fellow Caregivers
Anger, fear or depression can affect family and caregivers alike. Chaplains are trained to guide individuals through the emotional challenges that arise with a serious illness or death.
