Volunteers attend to the non-medical needs of people and their families faced with the end stages of serious illness. During their visits, volunteers may play cards; share a movie; converse or listen to music with the patient; prepare a light meal; help with housekeeping tasks; or read to the patient. This gives the opportunity to family caregivers to take a break from their care giving responsibilities. Volunteer caregivers help ailing people stay at home longer by eliminating caregiver burnout. Based on the patient's specific needs, on average a person can count on two - four hours per week of their volunteer's time.