Social Workers

The Role of Social Workers

Hospice social workers focus on the emotional, social, and practical aspects of care. They work alongside nurses, aides, spiritual care providers, and physicians to ensure the care plan supports the whole person and the entire family.

Social workers help by:

• Providing emotional support during times of stress or uncertainty
• Assisting with communication and care planning discussions
• Helping families navigate changes and transitions
• Connecting families with helpful resources

Their role is centered on helping families feel supported, informed, and less alone.

Emotional Support for Patients and Families

Serious illness affects everyone differently. Patients and family members may experience fear, sadness, frustration, relief, or uncertainty, sometimes all at once. These emotions are normal, and no one is expected to manage them alone.

Hospice social workers provide:

• A safe space to talk openly about concerns or fears
• Support for anticipatory grief and emotional adjustment
• Guidance through difficult conversations and decisions
• Reassurance during moments of overwhelm

Whether someone wants to talk or simply be heard, social workers meet families where they are emotionally.

Guidance Through Practical and Family Concerns

In addition to emotional support, social workers help families manage practical concerns that can arise during hospice care. This may include helping families understand available resources or addressing challenges related to caregiving and family dynamics.

Support may include:

• Guidance with care planning discussions
• Help navigating community resources
• Support with family communication and coordination
• Assistance during times of change or crisis

By addressing both emotional and practical needs, social workers help reduce stress and bring clarity to complex situations.

Collaboration With the Hospice Team

Hospice social workers are an integral part of the interdisciplinary hospice team. They communicate regularly with nurses, aides, spiritual care providers, and physicians to ensure care remains aligned and responsive.

Their collaboration helps:

• Identify emotional or social needs early
• Adjust support as situations change
• Ensure care plans reflect patient and family needs

This team-based approach ensures no aspect of care is overlooked.

Support During and After Hospice Care

Hospice social workers continue supporting families throughout the hospice journey and help connect families to bereavement resources after a loss. Their involvement helps families feel supported not only during care, but also as they begin to grieve.

Families are encouraged to reach out whenever they need guidance, reassurance, or someone to talk to.

A Commitment to Compassion and Dignity

At Foundations Hospice, social workers share a commitment to serving people at the end of life with honor and dignity. Their work reflects compassion in action, supporting emotional well-being, strengthening families, and guiding patients and loved ones through a meaningful and challenging season.

Simple Steps to Get Started

Getting support from a hospice social worker begins with a simple conversation.

1. Contact our team to discuss your loved one’s needs
2. Meet with a social worker as part of the hospice care plan
3. Receive ongoing support as needs and circumstances change