According to the late William Bartholme, a 20th-century cancer sufferer from Kansas City, dying should be thought of as an experience to be lived, rather than a medical condition. Nothing is more certain in life, and yet few things are so infrequently talked about. When confronted with news of a terminal illness, it is useful to have on hand a hospice book on the dying process.
The final moments of life are not always as peaceful as they are portrayed on television and in the movies. There are certain signposts that death is near. For example, the person may lose the ability to lose their legs in the last week of life. They lose their appetite and their interest in drinking. One of the most alarming and distressing phenomena is agonal breathing. It is a painful process to witness, and, if that is a likely scenario, it would be useful to know what to expect.
Once the shock has worn off that death is on the horizon, families can begin to prepare themselves for the inevitable. Physical changes will take place that will be influenced by the patient's condition. As a caregiver, you will want to know how the person feels about organ donation and whether or not they wish to be resuscitated should the need arise.
Some people will be very relaxed and philosophical about what's happening while others will be scared. Others will want to control every possible aspect of their lives right up until the end.
The same is true of family members and close friends. As well as the immediate care issues, there will be a massive range of emotions for everyone to process. Guilt is a common feeling associated with impending bereavement, as is anger.
It is important to discuss with the individual concerned what their wishes are with regard to organ donation. It will be easier on everyone concerned if there are clear-cut instructions. The same can be said about end-of-life care and resuscitation. They may not want to be kept alive artificially. The doctor and the patient can sign a document called a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) if this is the person's wishes.
Some people choose to spend their last few weeks on earth in a hospice, which is a specialized care center dedicated to the needs of the dying. Others will require the high-tech support of the hospital environment. Where possible, dying at home affords familiarity, comfort, and privacy.
Physical changes in the last few days of life are partially dependent upon the terminal condition. Having an excellent book that explains the general process can be a big benefit to someone about to lose someone close to them.
The final moments of life are not always as peaceful as they are portrayed on television and in the movies. There are certain signposts that death is near. For example, the person may lose the ability to lose their legs in the last week of life. They lose their appetite and their interest in drinking. One of the most alarming and distressing phenomena is agonal breathing. It is a painful process to witness, and, if that is a likely scenario, it would be useful to know what to expect.
Once the shock has worn off that death is on the horizon, families can begin to prepare themselves for the inevitable. Physical changes will take place that will be influenced by the patient's condition. As a caregiver, you will want to know how the person feels about organ donation and whether or not they wish to be resuscitated should the need arise.
Some people will be very relaxed and philosophical about what's happening while others will be scared. Others will want to control every possible aspect of their lives right up until the end.
The same is true of family members and close friends. As well as the immediate care issues, there will be a massive range of emotions for everyone to process. Guilt is a common feeling associated with impending bereavement, as is anger.
It is important to discuss with the individual concerned what their wishes are with regard to organ donation. It will be easier on everyone concerned if there are clear-cut instructions. The same can be said about end-of-life care and resuscitation. They may not want to be kept alive artificially. The doctor and the patient can sign a document called a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) if this is the person's wishes.
Some people choose to spend their last few weeks on earth in a hospice, which is a specialized care center dedicated to the needs of the dying. Others will require the high-tech support of the hospital environment. Where possible, dying at home affords familiarity, comfort, and privacy.
Physical changes in the last few days of life are partially dependent upon the terminal condition. Having an excellent book that explains the general process can be a big benefit to someone about to lose someone close to them.
About the Author:
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