178 How to Talk to Someone About Hospice: Communication Tips and Resources
Host Marie Betcher, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, explains that Hospice Explained is an educational resource and not a substitute for medical advice. She discusses how to communicate about hospice with patients, families, providers, and caregivers: be truthful, expect Emotions, keep the focus on the person you’re talking to, practice active listening, and use clear, simple language. She recommends asking simple, open-ended questions, pausing to listen, treating the discussion as a collaborative conversation rather than a debate, and being prepared with referrals and plans to find answers together. She suggests pulse.org and fivewishes.org as accessible resources to start end-of-life planning conversations, and encourages listeners to subscribe and share the podcast.
00:00 Welcome & Medical Disclaimer
00:29 Meet Your Host: Why This Podcast Exists
00:42 How to Talk About Hospice: Truth, Emotions & Listening
01:10 Keep It Simple: Questions, Pauses, and Conversation (Not Debate)
01:49 Be Ready With Resources: POLST & Five Wishes
02:47 Wrap-Up: Start the Conversation + Subscribe
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Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information
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Marie’s Contact [email protected] www.HospiceExplained.com
1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency,
This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
