Kootenay Boundary

The Greater Trail Hospice Society offers support and services for those with a life-limiting illness or in need of end-of-life care and those who are journeying through grief. From the time of diagnosis of a serious illness, through the rest of life, and during bereavement our Hospice services are here to support each person and their family. All of our volunteers receive excellent training in the foundation of Hospice care. Many have advanced education related to end-of life care or grief.

Services and Programs Include:
The organization utilizes the Palliative Approach which is offered by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals and volunteers who seek to journey with those who have a life-limiting illness. Compassionate care, assistance connecting with supportive resources, symptom management, Advance Care planning, family support and preparation for end-of-life are some of the many services offered. The goal of all care is to help the person live as independently as possible, with the best quality of life, for as long as possible

Volunteer Companioning Programs are all free, and include Hospice Staff and Volunteers companioning clients wherever they are needed: in their home, hospital, extended care or residential facilities, for any of the following:

• Listen without judgment, providing an opportunity to talk about “what matters”, life’s journey, or to reminisce
• Offer practical assistance. e.g. reading, writing letters, etc.
• Offer companionship and provide helpful information related to end-of-life care, dying, and bereavement.
• Act as an advocate to ensure client’s needs are met.
• Sit vigil at the bedside of a loved one at the end of life.
• Offer respite for family caregivers

Navigator Program to journey with those who have been diagnosed with life-limiting chronic illness, helping the person and their family to navigate through changes and challenges, connect with resources, learn about their conditions, and anticipate future needs. The Volunteers who are a part of this program have undergone additional training and are committed to providing confidential compassionate care through active listening, assisting with navigating the system, and providing resource materials and information

Bedside Volunteer Program provides Volunteers that sit with clients around the clock in the last hours of their life, which provides the loved ones of the dying individual with some respite, knowing that we are there if you cannot be. The Volunteers who are a part of this program have completed a 20-hour training program, have signed a confidentiality agreement, completed a criminal record check and an interview with the coordinator

Friendly Visitor Program focuses on those who live in supportive residential facilities who may have few friends or family who would enjoy a weekly, or bi-weekly, visit from a friendly face. The Volunteers who are a part of this program have completed the same requirements as those who are part of our Bedside Vigil Program.

Assistance with Advance Care Planning enables you to clearly state your personal wishes about health and end of life care. These can then be communicated to your family and health care provider(s). These volunteers will help you create your document.

The Greater Trail Hospice Society Resource Library has books and DVDs for loan on end of life care and grief for both adults and children. Call or visit the hospice office to see the selection.