If you have a friend in hospice care, make sure that you set aside time to go and visit them. Both your friend and their caregivers will appreciate that you stopped by. People need connections, and this is never more true than at the end of one's life.
#1 Call Ahead
Just because your friend is in hospice care doesn't mean that they have all the free time in the world. They may have specific times during which they are getting treatment and care or during which they are sleeping. They may also be balancing other visitors. Call ahead and ask when you can visit. Schedule and visit if that is what works best, or just stop on by if that is what your friend wants.
If you want to bring food or a gift, make sure that it is okay. Ask your friend or caretaker if a gift would be appropriate, and respect their wishes.
#2 Greet Your Friend Like Normal
When you go to visit your friend, greet them like you always would. If you would give your friend a handshake, a hug, or a high-five, keep up the tradition of greetings that you shared. Let your friend know that you still see them as your friend and not some sick person.
#3 Get Comfortable
Don't stand around awkwardly. Take off your coat; put down your purse. Sit down and look your friend in the eye. Talk to them. You getting comfortable can help your friend get comfortable as well and help them let down any inhibitions they have about being ill.
Talk to your friend like you normally would. This can be a good time to talk about shared memories and stories. It's okay to laugh at funny memories and it's okay to smile. Everything doesn't have to be serious just because your friend is facing a serious situation.
Also, be open to listening as well. Listen to your friend's memories and feelings. All you need to do is listen; don't feel that you have to solve anything for them, just listening is enough.
#4 Be Careful with Promises
As you wrap up your visit, be careful with promises. You don't want to make a promise that you will break. Don't say you'll visit again if you can't really commit to it due to your schedule or your emotions. Be real and honest and tell your friend that you love them. Let them know that you care and will be thinking about them. Your words still have meaning and value, especially at the end of life.