Episode Details

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

polst.org

https://www.fivewishes.org/