Role of the Caregiver


Most of our patients have a designated primary caregiver. Although the Hospice team provides guidance and support, it is not intended to take the place of the family or primary caregiver. Most primary caregivers are spouses, adult children, or trusted friends.

If no one is immediately available to fill the role of primary caregiver, we will help the patient identify someone who may accept that responsibility.

As a primary caregiver, your role is to:


  • Serve as a vital link between the Hospice team and your family
  • Help oversee your loved one’s care in the home (with the help of Hospice), particularly when the patient is no longer able to care for himself/herself
  • Communicate with the hospice staff regarding changes in your loved one’s condition

Your role as a caregiver is vitally important to your loved one. Hospice is committed to helping you every step of the way by teaching you how to provide care and by supporting you through this time.

Hospice supports your role as a caregiver by providing:


  • Instruction and guidance related to patient care
  • Emotional support to help you cope with the challenges of caregiving
    Respite care
  • 24 hour/day, seven day/week on-call nursing coverage for questions and emergencies
  • Grief support following your loved one’s death

As a caregiver, your loved one trusts you. Your endorsement of hospice care will go a long way in giving him or her the confidence to learn more.