Baycrest - End of Life Volunteer Manual
49
• When greeting the person, introduce yourself -- something you
may have to do several times with some patients.
• Be yourself.
CONVERSATION STARTERS
• Talk about the person's room – such as cards on display, plants,
pictures, furnishings, views from windows, garden and/or
surroundings.
• Ask about the person and family – siblings, children,
grandchildren, family achievements, education and
reminiscences.
• Ask about their life story – where they were born, their
childhood, pets, family life when they were young, special
friends, historical events they lived through, hurdles and
heartbreaks, and favourite occasions.
• Discuss what's happening now or this week – the weather,
current events, how their week was, family members' activities
in the past week and any planned outings.
• Explore social interests – hobbies, favourite pastimes, sports,
travels, jobs, friends, movies and community involvement.
• Talk about thoughts and feelings– their dreams, fears, hopes
and expectations for themselves and their family members.
