Southcoast Visiting Nurse Association’s (VNA’s) Hospice and Palliative Care program offers complementary care services designed to reduce stress for the patient and caregiver, provide pain relief and distraction, and create opportunities for joy and healing.

Studies show that these services may reduce stress and anxiety, decrease depression and increase oxygen absorption, helping patients feel more comfortable and relaxed. These non-invasive holistic practices do not replace the medical, social or spiritual care of the hospice and palliative care team but work with the total care of the interdisciplinary team to contribute to overall quality of life. All Southcoast VNA complementary services are provided by specially trained hospice volunteers and interns; they include:

Reiki—aids in stress and anxiety reduction, relaxation, and promotes increased vitality and general well-being.
Massage—certified massage therapists provide comforting touch to relieve pain and promote relaxation.
Music Therapy—whether performed by our volunteer Concordia Choir or played from a recording, it can address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs.
Pet-Assisted Therapy—pet companions bring love and affection that can help individuals relax, and enhance and touch lives by bringing comfort, companionship and relief.

All of Southcoast VNA’s volunteer complementary care services are made possible thanks to your continued contributions and the countless hours of services by our volunteers.

For more details on the program and its services, visit Southcoast VNA or call 508-973-3200.