Bereavement

- A state of sorrow over the death or departure of a loved one; to be left alone

Grief

- Deep mental anguish; intense sorrow caused by the loss of a loved one

Iowa Hospice provides support to individuals and families before, during, and after the death of a loved one. We actively follow the bereaved for 13 months after a loss (sometimes longer) by mailing materials, phone calls and home visits. Even though the active follow up process lasts about 13 months, we do not limit our services to a certain timeframe, nor do we reserve our services for certain individuals or families. Our services and support are available to all bereaved persons free of charge, even if their loved one was not cared for by Iowa Hospice. We also welcome concerned friends, neighbors, spouses and family members who may have concerns about a loved one who is grieving.

Did you know?

Bereaveds do not grieve at the same time, or in the same way. Many bereaved persons must handle funeral arrangements, insurance claims, estate settlements, etc. Family and friends surround them, which may be helpful to some, but for others can serve as a distraction. Once life becomes routine again (often six to nine months following the death), the bereaved may experience times when they struggle with their grief. They may have thought that they had grieved for their loved one, when in fact they may not have been allowed an opportunity to grieve. Some may believe they are better off by not expressing their grief or working through it.

Iowa Hospice encourages the bereaved to call anytime for information related to grief, or if they just need to speak with someone. The Iowa Hospice Bereavement Professionals will assist people over the phone or with a home or office visit. We are also glad to accept phone calls from concerned parties. We want to help those that are grieving by helping them through their grief process.

Our Mission

Iowa Hospice aims to support and educate individuals, families and the community about grief and the grieving process. We are accepting, responsible and knowledgeable, and welcome all who are seeking help, regardless of their stage of grief. We understand that grieving is a deeply personal experience, and no two people or families will grieve in the same way. We will assist the bereaved by providing services which suit their needs, whether it is one-on-one support, providing a safe place for them to explore and express their grief, and/or connecting them with other bereaved persons who can understand their feelings better than anyone else can.

The loss of a loved one can impact people in many different ways. Iowa Hospice understands and respects that every person grieves in their own time, in their own way. We openly accept these differences, and want to support the bereaved where they are. We walk with the bereaved during the grieving process, and help them to work towards the new “normal,” beginning to live and enjoy life again without their loved one.

Our Services

All bereaved persons and concerned parties are welcome to meetings and workshops, even if their loved one was not cared for by Iowa Hospice.