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Social Work Month: A Q&A with Hospice Social Worker Taryn Piatkowski

Every day, hospice social workers help patients and families navigate one of life’s most difficult and emotional journeys. During Social Work Month, we’re proud to recognize the compassion, expertise, and steady support they bring to the bedside and beyond. Hospice social workers provide far more than practical guidance—they offer a listening ear, help families process grief, and connect patients with the resources and support they need during end-of-life care. We recently asked Taryn Piatkowski, a hospice social worker with Community Healthcare of Texas, to share her journey into social work and what it means to walk alongside patients and families during such meaningful moments.

Could you share a bit about yourself and your journey into social work? What first drew you to this profession?
I grew up in a small town with a limited view of the world, so I didn’t even know what a social worker was until much later. While I was in grad school, I stumbled into a social work job almost by accident—and instantly fell in love with the helping field. The more I learned about the profession, the more I realized it aligned perfectly with my values and the kind of impact I wanted to have.

What led you specifically to hospice social work? Was there a moment, experience, or person who influenced that decision?
Most of my career was spent in community‑based social services, but when my mother‑in‑law and my mother both passed away on hospice, everything shifted for me. I saw firsthand what compassionate, end‑of‑life care can mean for families. After that experience, I knew I wanted to be the person offering that support to others.

How long have you been serving patients with Community Healthcare of Texas, and what has that experience meant to you?
Almost four years. In that time, I’ve had the privilege of walking with families through incredibly meaningful moments. Working with Community Healthcare of Texas has allowed me to support patients from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, which has deepened my appreciation for each person’s unique story.

How do you support patients emotionally and practically during end-of-life care?
Emotionally, hospice social work means being a steady, compassionate presence for patients and families. I listen, create space for fear and grief, and help them cope with the emotional weight of end-of-life care. I also help families reflect on what matters most, stay grounded during difficult moments, and continue processing their grief after their loved one has passed.
Practically, my role includes connecting families with community resources, guiding care planning as needs change, and helping with decisions about in-home caregivers or care placement. I also assist with non-legal advance care planning, respite options, financial concerns, and identifying meaningful activities that bring comfort and connection during this time.

What is one of the most meaningful moments you’ve experienced as a hospice social worker?
Some of the most meaningful moments are working with patients who have very limited support networks. Helping them connect to services, resources, and emotional support can completely change their experience when they are at the end of life. Being able to step into someone’s story, walk alongside them at the end of their life, and help them feel seen and cared for—that’s something that is an incredible honor.

What is something you wish more patients and families understood about hospice care?
Most people think only about the medical side of hospice—nurses, medications, equipment, etc. Those things are critical, but there are also so many non‑medical supports that families don’t realize are available. Emotional support, caregiver education, placement guidance, respite care, spiritual care, access to community resources… all of these things can make the journey less overwhelming and help families feel less alone.

What keeps you grounded and motivated in a role that can be emotionally heavy?
Every person I have met has lived a full and interesting life, and being able to hear their stories and learn about their experiences keeps me grounded. I get to learn about unique professions, hobbies, histories, and moments that shaped who they are. That connection—and the privilege of being invited into such a personal time in someone’s life—keeps me motivated and grateful for this work.

To learn more about the full range of services Community Healthcare of Texas can offer you or your loved one, call us at (800) 958-4942.

 

 

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