Aloha Spotlight: Nurse Chris — Bringing Comfort and Clarity to Our Community

How hospice care in nursing centers supports kūpuna and their ‘ohana with guidance, compassion, and a plan when it matters most

Here in East Hawaiʻi, taking care of our kūpuna is something we all value. It’s not just about providing care—it’s about showing up with patience, humility, and aloha. That’s what you’ll find in Hawaiʻi Care Choices hospice nurse, Chris Luedtke.

Across nursing centers in Hilo, Chris has become a familiar and trusted presence. Staff know him, families appreciate him, and over time, he’s built strong relationships simply by showing up and being willing to help.

“I remember what it was like working in nursing centers,” Chris shares. “It’s hard work. The staff is doing so much every day, so when I come in, I just try to support them and make things a little easier.”

That mindset carries into how he cares for patients and families, too.

Bringing Clarity During Uncertain Times

Many families assume that when their loved one is in a nursing center, all their needs are already being met. While daily care like meals, medications, and assistance is in place, hospice brings something more—an added layer of support focused on comfort, guidance, and understanding.

“When someone starts to decline, families often don’t know what to expect,” Chris explains. “It can feel confusing or overwhelming. Hospice helps bring some clarity to that.”

One of the ways Chris does this is through education. Rather than simply delivering difficult news, he takes time to explain what’s happening in a way families can understand.

“I don’t just tell them—I try to teach,” he says. “I explain what the body is doing and what those changes mean. When families understand, they feel less afraid.”

That understanding can shift everything. What once felt uncertain begins to make more sense, and families can be more present in the moment with their loved one.

Care That Supports the Whole ‘Ohana

While hospice care focuses on keeping patients comfortable, Chris is quick to point out that much of his work supports the family as well.

“A lot of the time, families are just sitting there, not sure what to do,” he says. “I encourage them to talk story, hold their loved one’s hand, and just be there. That connection matters.”

In nursing centers, Chris also works closely alongside staff, building relationships based on mutual respect. The care team continues their daily responsibilities, while Chris brings specialized knowledge in recognizing the changes that come at the end of life.

That collaboration helps ensure each patient is comfortable and cared for, while families feel supported and informed along the way. One of the most common things Chris hears is the belief that hospice means giving up. But for him, it’s just the opposite.

“Hospice isn’t giving up—it’s having a plan,” he says. “It means you have a team to guide you, to answer your questions, and to help you understand what’s ahead.”

That team includes nurses, aides, social workers, and chaplains—all working together to support both patient and family. At the heart of it all, what Chris brings is presence. He listens, he explains, and he meets people where they are, during one of life’s most tender times. And here in our Hawaiʻi Island community, that kind of care makes all the difference.

Mahalo nui loa, Nurse Chris, for the compassion and care you share with our kūpuna and their ‘ohana. We are so grateful for you!

How can hospice can support you and your ʻohana?

Hawaiʻi Care Choices offers specialized medical care for people with a life-limiting illness through hospice services; provided wherever a patient calls home. Whether you need care at your residence, a care home, or a facility, Hawai‘i Care Choices will be there for you with access to services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visit our Hospice Program webpage to learn more.