"Personal Preference for Engaging with Strangers Near End-of-Life"
Weekly encounters with those on the brink of life's end might be a rarity for most folks. But for Hazel Orchard, it's become more of a routine.
Hazel is a volunteer hospital companion, offering comfort and an understanding ear to those nearing their journey's end. Her role consists of more than just listening; she discusses everything from care plans to offering a solid presence when family needs a break.
While it's undoubtedly an emotional rollercoaster, Hazel believes being there to support these individuals as they navigate their final journey is a true honor.
"Let me tell you, it's deeply emotional - and I'm not mincing words here," says Hazel, hailing from Cardiff. "But to stand by these folks, aid them in their passage towards their eternal rest, is nothing short of a privilege."
Hospital companions, like end-of-life doulas or hospice volunteers, play a pivotal role in offering emotional support and companionship during challenging times. These volunteers provide continuous presence, offer family support, and lend a hand with daily activities. The presence of such companions can lead to peace, closure, and a more holistic end-of-life care experience.
In essence, the role of hospital companions is to provide compassionate, supportive care, filling in the gaps of non-medical support and ensure quality of life during a tough time.
- Hazel Orchard, a volunteer hospital companion from Cardiff, finds tremendous honor in assisting individuals approaching the end of their life's journey.
- Hospital companions, such as Hazel, offer not only a listening ear but also discuss care plans and provide a steady presence for family when needed.
- The occurrence of peace, closure, and holistic end-of-life care may be linked to the presence of hospital companions like Hazel, who offer emotional support and companionship during challenging times.
- Science has yet to fully explore the impact of mental health on health-and-wellness during the end-of-life phase, but therapies and treatments may benefit from the presence of dedicated companions such as Hazel.
- Perhaps the win for Hazel isn't just the privilege of being there for those nearing the end but also serving as a beacon of hope and comfort in the health-and-wellness and mental-health landscape for the dying.


