
After a period of sleepiness and confusion, may have a short time when he or she is mentally clear before going back into semi-consciousness.May have more anxiety, restlessness, fear, and loneliness at night.May talk about things unrelated to the events or people present.Restless, might pick or pull at bed linen.Apply cool, moist washcloths to head, face, and body for comfort.Near the end of life, some dehydration is normal. If the patient is having trouble swallowing, do not give them solid foods.If the patient has trouble swallowing pain pills, ask about getting liquid pain medicines or a pain patch.Speak in a calm, quiet voice and avoid sudden noises or movements to reduce the chances of startling the patient.It's best to time any position changes to be about 30 minutes after pain medicine is given. Help the patient turn and change positions every 1 to 2 hours.Sudden movement of any muscle, jerking of hands, arms, legs, or face.Limited ability to cooperate with caregivers.


Sometimes death comes quickly due to an unexpected event or problem. No one can really predict what may happen at the end of life, how long the final stage of life will last, or when death will actually happen.

The signs of death being near can be different for each person. It gives some signs that death may be close and gives the caregivers some ideas about ways they may be able to help. This information has been written for the caregiver, but many patients want this same information for themselves.
