As the end of life approaches, many people wonder what signs to watch for in their loved ones.
Although death is a natural part of life, it can still be an uncomfortable and mysterious process for families and caregivers. Understanding the physical and emotional changes that occur during the final stages of life can help prepare loved ones to offer the best care and comfort.
According to the NHS, these changes vary from person to person, but there are common symptoms that occur when someone is nearing the end. These symptoms can develop within hours or even days, and recognizing them can help ease the emotional burden of this difficult time. Let’s explore the key changes to be aware of as someone approaches their final days.
9 indicators that someone is nearing the end of their life
If you have an elderly relative who is terminally ill and lives with you, it is important to recognize when the end of their life is approaching. Nine common physical changes occur during this time, including fatigue, increased sleep, and loss of appetite. Let’s take a closer look at these changes.
They are often sleepy and exhausted.
As someone approaches the end of life, their energy levels drop significantly. They will often feel very tired and may sleep much more than usual. It is best to allow them to sleep as much as they need while keeping them comfortable. Changing their position every few hours can also help keep them calm.
Decreased appetite
Once the body begins to shut down, many of its organs stop working properly. This causes the individual to become extremely weak, making it difficult to eat and drink. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for advice on how to provide nutrition by alternative methods. If they can’t drink, you can apply lip balm to keep them comfortable.
Changes in breathing patterns
The NHS notes that as death approaches, breathing patterns often become irregular. A person can alternate between shallow and deep breaths, with pauses after deep breaths. In addition, due to the accumulation of mucus, their breathing can be noisy and raspy. If this happens, adjusting their position can help make breathing easier.
Confusion and hallucinations
Some drugs used in end-of-life care can cause chemical imbalances in the brain, leading to confusion or hallucinations. These can be stressful for both the person and their loved ones. Gently reminding them of the situation and reassuring them with a calm, soothing voice can help ease their discomfort.
A drop in body temperature
As circulation slows, blood is prioritized for vital organs, so extremities such as the hands, feet, and legs have less circulation. This often results in cold skin and a pale or mottled appearance with blue or purple spots on the skin. Even if a person may not be cold, offering a blanket can provide comfort.
Changes in bathroom habits
As the end of life approaches, a person usually eats and drinks less, which leads to less frequent bowel movements and urination. These changes can be uncomfortable, but they are normal. If the person loses control of their bowel movements, it may be helpful to bring in a caregiver to help.
Muscle weakness
A person nearing the end of life will experience significant muscle weakness, making even simple tasks such as drinking from a cup or turning in bed difficult. Offering to help with these activities can provide comfort and ease during this challenging time.
Reduced social interaction
As energy levels decline, individuals often begin to withdraw from social interactions. This is a natural part of the dying process and it is important not to take it personally. Realize that the person may need more rest and solitude. To maintain the connection, schedule visits for times when they can be involved.
Other end-of-life changes
In the final stages of life, vital functions undergo significant changes. Blood pressure may drop and the heartbeat may be weak, weak, or irregular. A pulse may also be difficult to detect. These are natural signs of the body shutting down as death approaches.
In conclusion, as a person approaches the end of life, various physical and emotional changes occur that signal the natural course of the dying process. Recognizing these symptoms, such as increased fatigue, changes in appetite, altered breathing patterns, and muscle weakness, can help caregivers provide needed comfort and support. While these changes can be disturbing, understanding that they are part of the body’s final stages can help you handle the situation with more awareness and compassion. Providing a calm environment, reassurance, and ensuring the person’s comfort during this time are essential steps to ensure that their final days are as peaceful and dignified as possible.