Virginia is for Voters: How Hospice Patients and Caregivers Can Participate in the 2024 Election

(Note: The information in this article pertains to Virginia Voters participating in the November 2024 General Election.)

The Importance of Voting in Challenging Times

At Hospice of the Piedmont, we believe in the power of choice—whether it’s about the care you receive or the future of our community. Voting is one of the most important ways to make your voice heard. Even during life’s most difficult moments, casting your ballot empowers you to participate in shaping the future.

We know voting can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a hospice patient or caregiver balancing so much. But you’re not alone. We’re here to help.

For example, if you’re a caregiver and want to vote in person, either at an early voting site or on Election Day, Hospice of the Piedmont’s volunteers can stay with your loved one. This gives you the peace of mind to vote without worrying about leaving them unattended.

Why Voting Matters for Hospice Patients and Caregivers

You may be wondering: Why would a hospice patient care about voting? It’s a fair question. So, here are some reasons why it matters to us:

• Empowerment and Autonomy: Just as we advocate for you to make your own choices about end-of-life care, voting allows you to take control of your voice in the larger world. Voting is another way to express your power.

• Staying Connected to the Community: Voting lets you stay engaged in the future of the community you care about. Our Death Doulas often work with patients on “legacy planning,” which helps them think about how they hope to influence the world after they’re gone. As a nonprofit that cares about the future of our entire community, we know this connection matters to our patients.

• We Want to Help: We understand that voting can be confusing or time-consuming. We always say that hospice care is “holistic,” and we mean it. That’s why we’re sharing these resources and tips to make it easier for you to vote.

What’s on the Ballot This Year

Here’s a quick look at what we’ll be voting on in Virginia for the 2024 election:

• President: You’ve probably heard a thing or two about this one. 🙂
• S. Senate: Tim Kaine (D) and Hung Cao (R) are running for one of Virginia’s two Senate seats this year. Senators serve six-year terms.
• S. House of Representatives: All representatives are up for election every two years. Hospice of the Piedmont serves patients in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 10th Congressional Districts.
• A Virginia Constitutional Amendment: Concerning the tax status of spouses of soldiers who died in the line of duty.

There may also be additional local elections, depending on where you live. You can check out what’s on your ballot here.

Getting Started: Things You Can Do Now

• Check Your Voter Registration: Visit the Virginia Department of Elections website to confirm your registration status, the location of your local registrar, and your polling place. Even if you vote regularly, it’s a good idea to double-check.
• Registration Deadlines: The deadline to register online, by mail, or in person is October 15, 2024. If you miss that deadline, you can register any time up until Election Day, but you’ll vote with a provisional ballot.

How to Vote Early as a Hospice Patient or Caregiver

While many voters love the patriotic feeling of seeing democracy in action on Election Day, voting early is becoming more common. Here are two ways hospice patients and caregivers can vote early:

• Absentee Mail-in Ballots:

  • Requesting a Ballot: You can request an absentee ballot online through the Virginia Department of Elections. No excuse is needed to vote absentee.
  • Completing Your Ballot: Following the instructions accompanying your ballot is essential. One recent change: Legislation enacted in 2023 removed the witness signature requirement. However, you must now provide the last four digits of your Social Security number and birth year.
  • Returning Your Ballot: You can return your ballot in person via a secure drop box (usually at your local registrar’s office) or by mailing it. Be sure it’s postmarked by November 5, 2024, and delivered by November 8, 2024.
  • Tracking Your Ballot: You can track your absentee ballot using Ballot Scout.

• In-Person Voting:

  • Early Voting: Starting September 20, 2024, you can vote early at your local registrar’s office. Hours vary by location, so check your local registrar’s website for details.
  • Saturday Voting: For some, voting during the week can be challenging. You can also vote in person at the registrar’s office on the two Saturdays before Election Day (October 26 and November 2). Note that November 2^nd is also the last day to vote early. Election Officials use the Sunday and Monday before Election Day to prepare for the big day.
  • Curbside Voting: If you’re 65 or older, or have a disability, you can vote from your car. Just park in the designated spot and follow the instructions. It helps to call ahead so the election officers are ready for you.

Last Chance! Voting On Election Day

• Election Day: Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Polls are open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you’re in line by 7:00 p.m., you will still be able to vote.
• Confirm Your Polling Place: Local electoral boards across the commonwealth updated precinct lines following the 2020 census. This means that even if you haven’t moved since the 2020 election, your polling place may have. You can check your polling place here.
• Receiving Assistance: If you need help voting, whether completing your ballot or receiving assistance at the polling place, you’re allowed to bring someone to help. Just ask an election official for guidance, or bring your own assistant. You may need to fill out some additional paperwork, depending on your situation.
• Voting from Your Car: On Election Day, curbside voting is also available for those with mobility issues. Most polling places designate parking spaces for this purpose. If possible, bring someone with you to go inside and ask an election official for help.
• Same-Day Registration: Virginia allows voters to register on Election Day. This is especially useful if you’ve recently moved or missed the regular registration deadline.

Key Information for Virginia Voters

• Important Dates:
  • Early Voting Begins: September 20, 2024
  • Last Day to Register: October 15, 2024
  • Absentee Ballot Request Deadline: October 25, 2024
  • In-Person Saturday Voting: October 26 & November 2, 2024
  • Election Day: November 5, 2024
  • Mailed Ballots Must Arrive By: November 8, 2024
• ID Requirements:
  • Virginia law requires an acceptable form of ID or signing an ID Confirmation Statement at the polls.

Conclusion: Your Voice, Your Vote, Your Virginia

Voting is a powerful way to make your voice heard, and at Hospice of the Piedmont, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you vote early, by mail, or in person, we encourage you to be a voter.

Need help? Reach out to us to arrange volunteer assistance, or visit the Virginia Department of Elections for more resources.