Understanding the Final Hours

Senior Health; Caregiving

This aims to guide you through the physical symptoms to expect during the final hours as you prepare to say goodbye to your loved one.

The ‘final hours’ refer to the period just before death occurs, which may range from hours to short days.

Physical symptoms when death approaches.

Spending more time sleeping

Reduced interest in food or drinks as body begins to conserve energy naturally
However if still alert, may feed small teaspoons of their favourite drinks or food to allow pleasure tasting

Confusion

Lowered body temperature

Fingers and toes become cool to touch as body redirects blood circulation to vital organs
Purplish blue discolouration appear at the palms and soles of feet

Reduced urine output

Change in breathing pattern

Tends to breathe with mouth open as muscles become more relaxed
May develop deep, rapid breathing alternating with periods of shallower breathing or cessation of breathing

Gurgling

Preparing to say goodbye...

Four important things you may want to say to express your feelings:

Acknowledgements

Articles; Health Tips

21/7/2023