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Physical and Emotional Changes as Death Approaches

Table of Contents


Overview

Several physical and emotional changes occur as death nears. Here are some things you can expect. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor. The more you know, the better prepared you'll be to cope with what is happening.

Emotional and spiritual changes

As death nears, you may feel like being social. You may want to see and connect with people. But it's also common for people to become less interested in the outside world and the specific details of daily life, such as the date or time. You may turn more inward and be less socially involved with others.

You may spend time thinking about people who have already died. Events in the recent past may become mixed with memories from your distant past. You may remember events from years long gone in vivid detail. But you may not remember what happened even an hour earlier.

Facing the end of your life may also cause you to confront your own spiritual questions and issues. Think about what provides comfort and support to you. Don't hesitate to ask for support from friends, family, hospice, or spiritual advisors.

Physical changes

Some of the common physical changes you may experience include:

Mental changes

As death nears, you may start to see or hear things that no one else does. You may also become agitated, or be more or less alert at different times. This is known as delirium. Your caregiver will tell a doctor or hospice worker if you're having delirium. Medicine can be prescribed to help keep you calm and comfortable.


Credits for Physical and Emotional Changes as Death Approaches

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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