The art of listening is truly “listening to understand” and not necessarily mirroring. If someone tells you that their parent is in the hospital then the appropriate response would be
“Refuah Sheleimah, how is s/he doing?….
How are YOU doing?
What kind of support does the family need at this time OR what kind of support has the family received at this time?
Do you want to talk about it?
Is there anything I can do to help you or offer my support?
Are you satisfied with the doctors or would you like me to help you make phone calls for recommendations?
And of course….”I’m here for you, if you need me please don’t hesitate to call on me.”