The realization that your loved one is dying is a critical moment of helplessness in our life.
Even though we may not be able to stop the inevitable there are still things we can do and
they will provide them with some additional comfort. Here are a few suggestions for
additional caretaking:
- Provide Warm Blankets
As days pass by, the hands, arms, feet, and legs of your loved one may be increasingly cool to the touch. Help them stay warm by covering them with soft, comfortable blankets.
- Comfortable Room
Make their room most comfortable as they are nearing the final days. Avoid powerful glare of lights; dim lights are to be preferred. Play soft devotional music. You can also light candles or use an essential oil diffuser to provide additional comfort.
- Offer Ice Chips
Most of our loved ones gradually stop eating or drinking towards the end of their life. It is very important that we do not try to force them to eat or drink. That may cause discomfort and risk of aspiration. Instead, offer them some juice or small chips of ice as refreshment. A cool, moist towel can also be placed on their forehead and glycerin swabs can be used.
- Talk to them to be Aware of the Surroundings
As the body shuts down, they may not be aware of the time and climate. They may not even know whether it is day or night. They may not even recognize their loved ones standing around them. Try to help them know what’s happening around them. Even the least important matter of life can be shared with them. You can tell them like “I’m going to be turning you so we can get ready for your bath.
- Support their Physical Changes
Your loved one may experience restlessness and make repetitive motions like pulling at their clothing while they are close to their last days. Allow them to move their body without restraining them in any way. Instead, quietly reassume them, play soothing music, and lightly massage their forehead. Change their clothes frequently, and provide them soft clothes.
- Support End-of-life Wishes
Support their wishes about the care they receive and their end-of-life plans. If they wish to talk about funeral arrangements, listen and support them. Allow them to decide the type care they should receive and where they want to receive it.
- Support their Experience
Your loved one may report seeing visions, particularly of family and friends who have already died. These types of visions often bring them great comfort, so do not try to contradict or test them.
- Be Present
Your loved one may sleep longer as they approach the end of their life. They may turn
unresponsive when you speak to them. You may feel difficult to wake them up. Support them by sitting close by and holding their hand. Keep talking to them about their fond memories and sharing anything important that you wish to say. Express gratitude and share words of love or forgiveness. Assume they can hear what you are saying because research shows that hearing is the last sense we hold on to.