Understanding Mental and Emotional Changes in End-of-Life Individuals

The dying process can be unsettling, especially when we are not comfortable, or unfamiliar, with the experience.  

When we learn more about death, dying and grief, we are able to be present for the dying individual.  We can bring love and comfort, while meeting the needs of the dying.

The attached article share that dying is normal stage of life, and understanding there can be various emotional and mental needs of the dying, such as:

Mood swings - the dying may have personality swings.  

Anxiety - this may be due to unresolved issues with others, fear of death or leaving loved ones.  

Confusion - as the physical body declines, this may add to confusion.  Being kind with your words is always comforting.

Visions - dying often have "deathbed visions".  These may cause discomfort for the loved ones witnessing.  Please do not be alarmed or try to correct the dying.  These visions do play an important role and often bring comfort to the individual.
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Working with a death doula before hand may help ease some of these symptoms, in additions to speaking with medical staff or hospice support may be helpful for a greater understanding for all involved.

Understanding Mental and Emotional Changes in End-of-Life Individuals