Hospice training offered

Charles Cole Memorial Hospital will offer a six-week volunteer training class beginning the week of March 19.

Hospice volunteers provide end of life care to patients and their families in Potter, Cameron, McKean and Tioga counties. In addition to assisting families in the care of their loved one at home, in the hospital or nursing home, volunteers can also assist with household tasks and child care.

The hospice concept came into vogue as health care providers sought to better support families who were facing the loss of a loved one. Efforts were made to allow those who were facing death to spend their final days at home, rather than in an institution.

Support from volunteers can range from comfort and counsel during difficult times, to running errands and taking care of the family's basic needs.

Persons interested in the volunteer training, being offered by the hospital's Department of Home Health and Hospice, should contact Bonnie Kratzer, Hospice Director, at 274-0384. Registrations must be received no later than Feb. 2.