End-of-life care, now that’s a topic you don’t hear being brought up in every day conversations!
While it may not be something we like to think about let alone talk about, how we will pass-on when the time comes is a topic that needs to be considered to give everyone peace of mind when the time comes that our loved one is ready to pass on.
So what is end-of-life care? End-of-life care involves the practical and emotional support for patients and their families that focuses on comfort and ensuring the little things don’t get in the way.
At the end of life, each story is different. Death may come suddenly, or a person’s life-force may gradually ebb away. For some, the body weakens while the mind stays alert. Others remain physically capable, but cognitive losses have taken a huge toll.
A peaceful death also might mean something different to you than to someone else. Your sister might want to know when death is near so she can have a few last words. Your husband might want to die quickly and not linger. Perhaps your mother has said she would like to be at home when she dies. Of course, often one doesn't always get to choose but avoiding suffering, having your wishes followed, and being treated with respect while dying are common hopes.
Care is an essential part of this time to make sure the person passing-on is as physically comfortable as possible. Our main at this time is to prevent or relieve suffering as much as possible while respecting the dying person's wishes.
There are many ways to make a person who is dying more comfortable and at peace that friends and family may not think of in the moment, this is where an experienced carer can help make all the difference to everyone involved. Pain and suffering are relatively easy to detect but discomfort can come from a variety of problems which may not be related to their primary condition.
What if you’ve an itch you can’t scratch but can’t talk anymore, what if stopping eating is causing digestive problems, or if haven’t cleaned you mouth for a few days and your lips are chapped. Dignity is so crucial at this point and families and loved ones usually have enough to deal with at the time.
Each loss is completely unique, so being someone’s carer at the end of their life can be physically and emotionally challenging. We do the best we can each and every time, and hope that the pain of losing someone special may be softened a little knowing we could to be there for them.
Sharing the burden when a loved-one is dying
Many practical jobs need to be done at the end of life—both to relieve the person who is dying and to support the family. Everyday tasks can be a source of worry and they can be overwhelming in an emotional difficult moment.
Letting somebody take over daily chores around the house and attending to the physical aspects of care can provide some much-needed space for everyone to process the big things that are happening.
If you need support when a loved-one is preparing to pass-on, rest assured that our team of experienced carers is here for you and your loved-one. Give yourself the time, space and reassurance that the end of a life can be an experience of kindness, compassion and dignity.
We’re here to help!
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