Ten Signs Someone is Nearing the End-Of-Life 

It is inevitable that our loved ones will reach end-of-life at some point. Understanding the signs can be a helpful way to transition into grief and onto the next stage. Not all signs are present, but are all potential indicators that someone may be nearing the end-of-life. As a caretaker, or a loved-one, make yourself aware of the signs, and what you can do to help. 

1. Loss of Appetite and Thirst 

   This is a typical indicator that someone is nearing the end-of-life. The body will naturally conserve its own energy for death. Therefore, little to no appetite or thirst is a common sign. You can help them by not forcing them to eat or drink, and allowing them to naturally decide on their own terms. 

2. Change of Breathing

Changes in breathing is a common indicator that someone may be nearing the end-of-life. Shallow breaths is a very common sign and proves that the body is not circulating as it should. Typically such individuals may take slower, shallower breaths with periods of no breathing. This is a common occurrence, but there are ways you can help. Adjust their position for more comfort and moisten their lips. These are two good ways to assist them during their laboured breathing. 

3. Change in Urination and Incontinence 

Urination and bowel movements may become infrequent. In addition, urination may be limited and tea-coloured. Incontinence may also occur, which is the lack of control over urination and bowel movements. When this occurs, you can assist by keeping everything clean and sanitized. 

4. Fever

On the contrary to a drop in temperature, is the chance of a fever. Typically, this occurs due to blood leaving the extremities and traveling towards the vital organs. A person may feel cold and hot within minutes. This is a symptom of a high-fever. All you can do is keep them warm when they feel cold, and cool with a moist towel when they feel hot. 

5. Swelling in Feet, Hands and Ankles

As a person ages, kidney function decreases. Fluid is not being pumped through the body normally, and this may cause swelling in the feet, hands and ankles. You can help your loved one by elevating the legs slightly, adjusting them for more comfort, and ask a palliative nurse to help you with a compression hose. 

6. Change of Vital Signs

When a person approaches death, vital signs may change in many ways. Blood pressure may drop significantly, and their heartbeat may become irregular or hard to detect. These changes are not painful to an individual, but merely a sign that they are approaching the end-of-life. What you can do? Be present with them, and hold their hand for comfort. 

7. Drop of Body Temperature and Coolness

A person’s temperature may drop significantly at this time. Their hands, arms, legs and feet may be cool to touch. The colour of their skin may also change, and become mottled. Mottled skin is a condition which occurs when someone is nearing the end-of-life. Mottling is blotchy, red-purple marbling of the skin. The condition first occurs on the feet, then travels upwards on the legs and so forth. To help the person, keep their body warm with comfortable soft blankets and pillows. 

8. Potential Hallucinations and Confusion

A potential for hallucinations and confusion may occur during the end-of-life phase, this is a common symptom. You can assist them by identifying yourself before you speak, and speak in a soothing, yet clear voice.  

9. Change in Sleep Patterns

An individual nearing the end-of-life may experience an increased amount of sleep. The person may not be communicating as frequently, and willing to sleep instead. You can help them by allowing them this time to rest, and remain with them so they can be accompanied when awake. 

10. Pain

Not every individual experiences pain when nearing the end-of-life. Pain could potentially increase as they come closer to death. However, every individual’s experience is unique. Cancer on the other hand is different. Individuals with cancer will experience pain at some point during their palliative journey. Pain medications may be administered by the palliative nurse. All you can do for your loved one is hold their hand, and remind them of your love and support.

If you would like someone to talk to regarding dying, or dying at home, phone Shelley at Aspen Care, 403-990-3837. Shelley will gladly walk you through the process and provide you or your loved one with any information regarding palliative or dying with dignity.