Compliments of DyingMatters.org
http://dyingmatters.org/page/being-someone-when-they-die#Physical
Being with someone you love at the point of their death is a profound experience. Nonetheless, you may find the anticipation emotionally and mentally exhausting. At times you may fervently wish for it to be over. And then you may feel guilty for thinking like this. But it is a normal and understandable response to a very stressful situation.
Being there at the end
- Remember: hearing is thought to be the last sense to go in the dying process, so never assume the person is unable to hear you. Talk as if they can hear you, even if they appear to be unconscious or restless.
- If possible, lower lighting until it is soft, or light candles, making sure they burn in a safe place. Try to keep bright sunlight away from the dying person’s face and eyes.
- You can create a peaceful, soothing atmosphere by playing a favourite piece of music or songs softly in the background.
- You might wish to quietly read a favourite poem, a spiritual passage or a religious text that means something special to the person. (Continue Reading “Being with Someone When…”)
Dying & Death Talk 