Educating
This could turn into a positive experience for you if you just … WHAT WILL I TALK ABOUT? 5 Conversation Starters Talk about the person’s room or home – such as cards on display, plants, pictures, furnishings, views from windows, colour or style of décor, garden and/or surroundings.
As a volunteer, you may be anxious about what you will talk about with the dying person, particularly when you first meet. Here are some tips to get the conversation started: • Before your visit, review the information on the person’s likes, dislikes and any sensitive topics that you should avoid. • Remember to ask open-ended questions. • Be prepared to share information about yourself do not be afraid to describe your own feelings when appropriate. • When you arrive, “take the temperature of the room” by asking family members how
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 home, 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 (psycho-spiritual issues).
and
the
person is and how he or she is coping.
• When greeting the person, introduce yourself -- something you may have to do several times with some clients. • Be yourself.
5 Adapted from Hospice of Waterloo Region Volunteer Training Manual: The Art of Conversation
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