If you’re in a hospital, ask your family and friends to bring items that comfort you, like photos, blankets, and pillows from home.
For instance, you might play a board game with your sister when you feel energetic. Similarly, you might walk your dog.
Consider getting a speech-activated device that will play the music you want on command. If you’re not sure how to do this, ask a family member or friend to help you set one up.
For instance, it’s okay to spend the majority of your day in either a recliner or your bed.
Don’t use a heated blanket because it might get too hot or could burn you. If you have a caregiver, ask them to help you stay comfortable.
It’s okay if some tasks are left undone. Right now, your comfort and rest are most important, so don’t worry.
You’ll work with a doctor, nurses, and other healthcare providers to ease your pain and cope with other symptoms.
Ask someone you trust to help you type up your advance health care directive. Then, they can help you get it notarized and, if necessary, reviewed by a lawyer.
You’ll likely need to take your pain medication before your pain gets bad again. It’s easier to prevent pain than it is to make it go away. If your pain reliever stops working, talk to your doctor. They may provide you with something stronger, such as morphine. When you’re managing end-of-life pain, you don’t need to worry about getting addicted to painkillers. It’s okay to take them as often as you doctor says is safe.
Ask for help if you have trouble shifting. It’s normal to feel weak, and your caregiver, friends, and family will all be happy to help you.
The medical term for this is dyspnea. Your doctor might offer you pain relievers or oxygen to help you feel less discomfort if you’re having trouble breathing.
Your doctor might also give you advice to help you avoid nausea and constipation.
Re-apply your lotion when your skin feels dry. For instance, you might need to put lotion on your hands after you wash them.
Say, “I really want to see my family right now. Please visit me around dinner time so we can talk. Which days this week are you available?” It’s okay if you want time alone to rest or think. Tell people you want space and ask them to leave you alone for awhile. [16] X Research source
For instance, tell family and friends how much you love them. Say, “Thank you,” to people you need to thank. Forgive people who hurt you in the past. Apologize for mistakes you made.
This will help you realize how full and meaningful your life truly was, which can help you be at peace.
For example, drive to the Grand Canyon, watch the sunset on the West Coast, or go on a cruise.
You might say, “I’m worried about who will care for my dogs after I pass? Do you have any advice?” or “I’m afraid that I’ll have to go back to the hospital. Is it okay if I just vent a little?”
If you’re getting palliative care, you might already have a therapist on your team. Talk to them if you need counseling. Your therapy appointments might be covered by insurance, so check your benefits. You might feel like there’s no point in starting therapy right now, but your feelings are very important. Talking to a therapist could help make your last days more peaceful, so it’s work reaching out.
Consider inviting more than 1 spiritual leader to visit you so you can see them more often. If you’re estranged from your faith, ask about making amends and getting right according to your beliefs. Invite members of your spiritual community to come talk to you about your faith or to pray with you.
If you’re thinking about suicide and need immediate help, please contact a suicide prevention hotline such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you’re in the United States by calling or texting 988. If you’re in a different country, please call your nation’s suicide prevention hotline. Things will get better!
