Supporting a Dying Loved One

One of the most life changing experiences is supporting a dying loved one. Unfortunately, even though no one is ever ready to go through such an ordeal, most of us are likely to face it at one time or another.

Here we have a guide to help you through this process.

Presence, Compassion & Gentleness

Death as we know is inevitable. Depending on the persons illness or condition, it could be a matter of days, weeks or months. Therefore, palliative care in a hospice should be considered in order to provide as much comfort as possible. Keep in mind that the caregivers in a hospice are there not only for the patient, but also for their family and friends. Don’t hesitate to ask them for their advice when you need to.

It is important to make sure that the person is well taken care of, right until the end of their life. It’s a good idea to organize a schedule for visits from various family members to avoid exhaustion. This way your loved one will not need to be left alone or be overwhelmed by too many at one time. During visits stay calm and relaxed. Take old family photos or videos to watch with them and reminisce. Remember to hold hands and hugging the person, small gestures of affection that will bring you closer.

Remember Your Own Needs

A key aspect of supporting a dying loved one is to listen to yourself so that you don’t become too tired or too depressed. A sick person can sometimes stay for several weeks in palliative care, which can quickly become exhausting if you are supporting them alone. Don’t hesitate to call on your family and friends when you need them. Allow yourself to express your feelings and release tension, an important part of the grieving process. If you need a break, take it. In the event that your loved one dies in your absence, there is nothing to feel guilty about, a person’s death is impossible to predict.

For any advice you may need, please contact us here.