One essential purpose of hospice care is that no one should die alone without support or the presence of loved ones. Eleventh-hour volunteers are trained to keep vigil and provide that supportive presence to patients and families in the final hours of life. The 11th Hour program serves those who have no family present--whether the family are on route from states away or if the patient has no available loved ones. Visits often involve sitting quietly and holding a hand, softly reading poetry or scripture, if appropriate, or providing a calming presence so people do not feel alone.

The 11th Hour Volunteers at BCN have now returned to serve our patients and families in a wonderful way! Recently, we recently had a hospice patient who was a resident in a local nursing home. As her condition worsened, our volunteers stepped up to make sure she was not alone. Volunteers spent a total of 44 hours with her – talking with her, singing and reading to her – even though she was unable to respond.

11th Hour Volunteers provide comfort to patients who are actively dying, typically in a hospital, nursing center or assisted living facility. These volunteers work on-call, so the hours vary greatly, including some weekends. Special training is provided to ensure volunteers feel educated and comfortable in their assignments. Volunteers are contacted as the need arises, often on short notice.

If you are interested in finding how to volunteer with Bluegrass Care Navigators, please go to www.bgcarenav.org/volunteer.