Visiting a Dying Loved One

It isn’t easy to deal with the fact that a loved one is close to death. Not only does this make you feel very sad, but the feeling of helplessness can be extremely overwhelming too. Sometimes we find ourselves lost in terms of what we can do and say when we are visiting a dying loved one. Here are some pointers that may help

• Keep your visits short because the person may find it very tiring to converse with visitors for longer periods of time.
• If the ailing person isn’t able to converse which you, it’s a good idea to visit with another family member or friend. This is because it can be quite depressing to sit in the presence of someone who can say nothing. The two visitors can have a conversation with each other while the dying person can listen.
• When you’re communicating with a dying loved one, speak slowly and clearly. It’s likely the person’s brain may have slowed down and it can take them longer to absorb as well as process the information.
• If you feel that the person is asleep, respect their dignity and don’t continue talking to them. Make sure that they are listening in when you are actually saying something. Keep in mind that even when a person is dying, hearing is one of the very last senses that fades out.
• Don’t tell a dying person to be strong; this can only be a little insulting for them as they know they are at the end of their life.
• If you feel the urge to cry or even express some emotion, don’t refrain from doing so. That emotion can be a comfort point for the person who is about to meet their end.

Contact a funeral director at Nutmeg State Cremation Society if you have any questions about end of life planning, or if you would like to know more about the services we offer.