When someone you care about is dying What to expect
Forward Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) in collaboration with Milford Care Centre are proud to provide this booklet to support you when someone you care about is dying. This booklet may help you to know what to expect in the last days and hours of their life. We understand this is an emotional and challenging time for you. We hope this booklet will provide you with some support to help you at this time. This version has been adapted directly from the IHF/HSE Hospice Friendly Hospitals Programme booklet, on When someone you care about is dying in hospital – What to expect with additional input from members of IHF’s Healthcare team. Talk to your healthcare team if there is anything worrying you or the person you care about. The healthcare team is generally made up of doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants, social workers, and other support staff. This booklet is freely available for anyone who wants to read it. Please take a copy for yourself or give it to anyone whom you think will find it useful. This booklet is also available to download at www.hospicefoundation.ie . IHF has a number of bereavement resources and supports available including the Bereavement Support Line to provide comfort and connection for anyone who is grieving. See details on page 15.
Contents
1. Introduction
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2. Coping with changes in the person who is dying
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3. Talking about feelings
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4. Talking about beliefs
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5. What to do if someone dies while you are with them
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6. Looking after yourself
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7. Useful resources
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1. Introduction
When someone you care about is dying it can be hard to know what to say or do. Sometimes it is hard to know how to comfort the person who is dying. This booklet aims to help you to understand what is happening when you are in this difficult situation. Some deaths are sudden, and not every death is expected. So some parts may not apply to you. This booklet includes information about: • some of the changes that can happen when someone is dying, and what you can do to help • talking about feelings • talking about beliefs • what to do if someone dies while you are with them • talking with children about death and dying. • looking after yourself The person who is dying may already have told you and/or the healthcare team about what they want for themselves at this time. This booklet deals with the most common concerns and questions. You can ask your healthcare team if you have any other questions or concerns. They are there to help you.
Every person is unique, so every death is different.
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2. Coping with changes in the person who is dying
This section explains some of the changes that are common when a person is close to death. When a person enters the final stages, dying may affect their body or mind, or both. These changes are a normal part of the dying process. Sometimes these changes appear a few days before death, sometimes a few hours. These are part of the normal, natural process of the person’s body slowing down. This is an uncertain time and difficult to predict. Changes that may happen to the person include: • not wanting to eat or drink • becoming restless • getting cold hands and feet • sleeping more
• becoming confused • changes in breathing • having pain or discomfort.
These changes do not happen in a set order. Not all of them happen to everyone. You can ask your healthcare team if you have any other questions or concerns. They are there to help you.
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Not wanting to eat or drink When close to dying, many people stop wanting to eat or drink. Their lips and throat can sometimes get dry. This is normal, but it can be uncomfortable for the person and upsetting for those who care about them. You can help them by gently wetting their mouth and lips with a mouth sponge. Applying a lip balm can also help. This will usually be enough to keep the person comfortable. Becoming restless Sometimes the person who is dying can become restless. They may be anxious, or make repeated movements, such as pulling at their blankets or clothes. This is usually because of physical changes in the body. Getting cold hands and feet The person’s hands and feet may feel cold, and may change colour. This is because their heart is sending blood to the vital parts of the body, and it is not reaching their arms and legs.
Everyone is different and unique.
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Sleeping more As a person is dying they may spend more time sleeping. When they are awake they may be tired and sleepy, with little energy. They may not want to speak. They may slip in and out of consciousness. This is normal. Let the person relax and rest. It is important to remember that hearing does not always fade before death, so even when the person seems less conscious they may be able to hear you.
You can let them know that you are with them by speaking, holding their hand or doing something that you know will comfort them. Speak softly and clearly, and use the person’s name.
Becoming confused When awake the person may be confused about where they are, the time of day, who you are or even who they are. They may see or hear things which are not there. They may appear to speak with people who have died before them. You can remind the person gently about reality and reassure them they are safe and you are with them.
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Changes in breathing As a person nears death, their breathing will change. It may get very fast, or become slow or shallow. The person may appear to be breathless. When they are very near to death, there may be long gaps in a person’s breathing. You can continue to hold their hand and speak to them in a reassuring way. You may notice loud or soft gurgling noises coming from the person’s chest. The noisy breathing will usually not disturb the person, although it may be upsetting for you to listen to. This type of breathing does not mean the person is in pain. Having pain or discomfort You may worry that the person you care about is in pain or uncomfortable. However, in most circumstances the person will have little or no pain. The healthcare team will do all they can to make sure the person is comfortable. If you have any questions or concerns about symptoms or if there is something worrying you, please talk to someone in your healthcare team. Your healthcare team can provide you with comfort and support and can help explain what is going on and what to expect.
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3. Talking about feelings The time approaching death can be an emotional time for everyone. The person who is dying, and people who care about them, like you, may go through a range of emotions. These may include shock, anger, upset, fear, denial, helplessness, relief, frustration, and acceptance. These feelings can come and go in any order. Both you and the person you care about may go through all of them, or some of them, or none of them.
People respond in different ways. There is no right or wrong way to deal with these feelings.
This part of the booklet aims to give you some ideas about what you can do or say to support the person when they are going through these emotions. This section outlines: • what you can do to support the person who is dying • talking about dying and death • talking to children about dying and death • touch • being quiet together • letting go What you can do to support the person who is dying
Sitting with the person and listening is very important at this time. Careful listening helps the person who is dying to share their feelings. It may also help you to understand their concerns.
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Be respectful of what the person says. Try not to brush them off or change the topic. Most people just want to be listened to as they express their hopes and fears. They may just want to know that they are not alone. Talking about dying and death Talking about dying and death can be very difficult. Many people find it hard to know what to say. People can react in ways you might not expect. Some people avoid talking about it. Some remain positive, while others want to talk more openly. You may not be sure of what to say at this time. There is no right or wrong way to deal with this. Everyone is different. It is helpful to let the dying person talk about what is on their mind. Let them take the lead in the conversation. They may talk about dying in an indirect way, such as by asking, “Is there life after death?” On the other hand, they may be more direct and ask: “Am I dying?” If you can, it is good to respond to any questions. If you feel stuck for words you could say something like, “Are you worrying about something?” “That’s a big question - have you been thinking about that for a while?” Although it can be hard, it can be good to talk about the truth if that is what the person wants. Some people who are dying do not want to focus on what lies ahead or to talk directly about the end of life. But at the same time, they may want to be reassured about what is happening and that they are getting the right care and support. When you are talking about death, it helps to listen carefully and to let the person speak freely. This may be about practical, emotional or spiritual matters. Some people don’t feel ready to have this kind of conversation.
It is important that you look after yourself at this time. For more about this, see page 14.
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Talking to children about dying and death Children who are close to the person who is dying may have many questions. How much you tell them will depend on how old they are. Very young children do not always understand illness, and older children may want to know more. Even very young children can tell when something is wrong, so try to be as open and honest as possible, using words they will understand. If helpful, the social work staff or other members of the healthcare team can help you to answer their questions. Touch You do not always have to use words in order to communicate. Indeed, you may find it hard to find words for what you want to say to the person who is dying. At times like this, touch is a good way to let the person know you are there. This simple act can be very important and valuable. It may also be comforting for both of you. You could hold the person’s hand or gently stroke or massage it. Many people find this reassuring. It can also help the person to relax, sleep or deal with discomfort. Sensing you are there can bring great comfort and peace.
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Being quiet together As the person becomes weaker, they will have less energy for talking. Sometimes they may not want to talk. That is fine. Just knowing you are always ready to listen to them can be very reassuring. It can be good to keep your friend or relative company as you sit in silence together. Letting go Saying a final goodbye is never easy and some people find letting go difficult. Tears and talking about memories can be part of saying goodbye and help you both let go. Some people want to be there every moment. Others find it difficult to spend time with their loved one when death is near. Some people don’t get to say goodbye, and some people don’t cry. Grief before your loved one dies While we often assume grief happens after someone you care about has died, we now know that some feelings of grief can be experienced before an actual death. This has been called ‘anticipatory grief ’ and it can be hard for a person to make sense of. They may even feel guilty or feel they are betraying the relationship as the person is still alive.
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Ways to cope with grief before a person has died • Allow yourself to experience your feelings and reactions, recognise them as grief. • Talk to those you trust about what you are experiencing. • Spend time with the person you’re caring for. Listen to them and talk to them about things that concern them (if they wish). • Find out what you can from medical or other professionals about what to expect in relation to how the person you’re caring for will experience and change as their illness progresses and ask questions about any worries you have. • Take advantage of support available — hospitals, hospices or voluntary organisations may provide counselling or support groups.
It’s important to understand that grief is a normal part of experiencing loss. Everyone grieves differently, and most people experiencing grief won’t require more than general support and information. For those who require additional support, resources are available. Our Bereavement Support Line, in partnership with the HSE, is there to provide connection, comfort and support as well as to signpost those in need of additional support. It is a shoulder to lean on for anyone experiencing bereavement and loss or worried about someone else who is.
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4. Talking about beliefs When they are seriously ill or dying, many people think about the meaning and purpose of life. They may say things like, “Why is this happening to me?” or “What has it all been about?” These are deep and personal questions. Many people get consolation just from saying them. Some people who are seriously ill or dying ask themselves questions about life and death. Sometimes it helps to think or talk things through with another person. Some may want to talk about spiritual or religious matters with a religious leader or a spiritual person. People who do not have any religious or spiritual beliefs may also want to speak about what is happening. Many people find it consoling to think and talk about these things. You may find the experience of being with the dying person is meaningful and spiritual for you, too. Your dying relative or friend may want to pray, meditate or reflect with you. Pastoral care staff can help people with emotional and spiritual matters. Pastoral care is there for everyone, whether they have religious beliefs or not. The pastoral care team can provide support based on a person’s faith tradition. They can also contact other counsellors as needed, or you may invite a member of your own faith community to provide spiritual support. The person’s spiritual beliefs, identity or their culture may be different to your own. If they are happy to talk to you about this, you should try to understand their beliefs, customs, needs and rituals around dying and death. In this way, you can ensure that their cultural values are respected, and you can plan for appropriate care.
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5. What to do if someone dies while you are with them It may be that the person you care about dies while you are with them. If so, please tell a member of your healthcare team. After you’ve notified the healthcare team that your loved one has died, this may be a good time to simply sit with them. Take your time. The healthcare team will advise and explain to you what happens next. You might want to contact a chaplain and the healthcare team can do this for you as well advising you on anything else that needs to be done. You don’t have to do anything immediately. If there are several people around the bed, you can all take the opportunity to say or do whatever feels right for you or simply sit quietly with your loved one if that is your preference.
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6. Looking after yourself It can be difficult to think about minding yourself when someone you care about is dying. The healthcare team is there to support you. If you can, ask your family and friends for practical or emotional support. Remember to eat and sleep when you can. Try to keep up your strength so you can spend time with the person who is dying or others who care about them. Grieving Grief is a natural process. It is what happens as people adjust to loss and change. Some people grieve before the person dies, as well as afterwards. Even if the death was expected, many people feel shock and disbelief when it happens. Grief does not come in stages – it can come and go. Some feelings might occasionally come while others might be more prolonged or persistent. Most people move through different feelings in their own way and at their own pace. There is no time limit to grieving, and everyone’s grief experience is different. Your healthcare team including your GP can help you at this time. Alternatively, call the Bereavement Support Line (see details on page 15).
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See hospicefoundation.ie/nnc the work of the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, whose Model of Care , published in 2019, aims that: “Every person with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition can easily access a level of palliative care appropriate to their needs, regardless of care setting or diagnosis, in order to optimise quality of life”. practice palliative care, at all levels, and within all settings, in Ireland. Our Palliative Care Programmes endeavour to align with the work of the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, whose Model of Care , published in 2019, aims that: Palliative Care practice palliative care, at all levels, and within all settings, in Ireland. Our Palliative Care Programmes endeavour to align with the work of the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, whose Model of Care , published in 2019, aims that: “Every person with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition can easily access a level of palliative care appropriate to their needs, regardless of care setting or diagnosis, in order to optimise quality of life”. Palliative Care for All programme Many people associate palliative care only with cancer, but palliative Bereavement Support Line A national freephone service - 1800 80 70 77, set up by Irish Hospice Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Palliative Care for All programme Many people associate palliative care only with cancer, but palliative Children’s Palliative Care working with patients with life-limiting conditions such as these. Palliative Care for All programme Many people associate palliative care only with cancer, but palliative Primary Palliative Care is the programme focussed on supporting the delivery of care to people who have advancing life-limiting conditions living at home in the community. See https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-am-seriously-ill/ palliative-care/ working with patients with life-limiting conditions such as these. we have been working in partnership with the HSE and other charities to ensure that the needs of children and their families are met and services are being delivered. Read more. Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie Our best Primary Palliative Care is the programme focussed on supporting the delivery of care to people who have advancing life-limiting conditions living at home in the community. See https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-am-seriously-ill/ palliative-care/ “Every person with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition can easily access a level of palliative care appropriate to their needs, regardless of care setting or diagnosis, in order to optimise quality of life”. care can be provided to any person living with a life-limiting disease, advancing neurological illness, chronic kidney disease and dementia. We provide information and resources for those Bereavement Support Line A national freephone service - 1800 80 70 77, set up by Irish Hospice Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Children’s Palliative Care Palliative Care Our best Information and Support Line Facing a life-limiting illness or caring for a friend or family member with one can be both a challenging and uncertain time for anyone. The Information and Support Line (1800 60 70 66) is a confidential line that provides
Palliative Care What is it and who is it for ?
Useful Resources IHF Resources and information to support people who are bereaved
IHF Resources & Information to Support People who are Bereaved
Palliative Care What is it and who is it for ?
Primary Palliative Care is the programme focussed on supporting the delivery of care to people who have advancing life-limiting conditions living at home in the community. See https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-am-seriously-ill/ palliative-care/ care can be provided to any person living with a life-limiting disease, advancing neurological illness, chronic kidney disease and dementia. We provide information and resources for those HF Resources and information to upport people who are bereaved IHF Resources & Information to Support People who are Bereaved HF Resources & Information to upport People who are Bereaved IHF Resources and information to support people who are bereaved
Palliative Care What is it and who is it for ? Our information booklet for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more . Our information booklet for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make Our information booklet for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more . people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more .
care can be provided to any person living with a life-limiting disease, advancing neurological illness, chronic kidney disease and dementia. We provide information and resources for those our beginnings Irish Hospice Foundation have sought to ensure the needs of these children and their families are met. For over a decade . working with patients with life-limiting conditions such as these. signposting, practical supports and resources about end-of- life care, advance care planning and palliative care in Ireland. For more information, visit: https://hospicefoundation.ie/ our-supports-services/healthcare-hub/information-and- support-line/ Bereavement Support Line A national freephone service - 1800 80 70 77, set up by Irish Hospice Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Children’s Palliative Care our beginnings Irish Hospice Foundation have sought to ensure the needs of these children and their families are met. For over a decade IHF Bereavement Support Line Freephone 1800 80 70 77 Available Monday to Friday, 10am-1pm. In partnership with the HSE. Our Bereavement Support Line is for any adult grieving. Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie our beginnings Irish Hospice Foundation have sought to ensure the needs of these children and their families are met. For over a decade we have been working in partnership with the HSE and other charities to ensure that the needs of children and their families are met and services are being delivered. Read more. Nurses for Night Care We fund the Nurses for Night Care service for people dying with illnesses other than cancer. Nurses for Night Care enable people with diseases like dementia, motor neurone disease, advanced respiratory disease, heart failure and end stage kidney disease to receive expert nursing care and support at night in their own homes in their final days. It also provides reassurance and respite for families and loved ones Nurses for Night Care We fund the Nurses for Night Care service for people dying with illnesses other than cancer. Nurses for Night Care enable people with diseases like dementia, motor neurone disease, advanced respiratory disease, heart failure and end stage kidney disease to receive expert nursing care and support at night in their own homes in their final days. It also provides reassurance and respite for families and loved ones . Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie 63 Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie caring for someone at home. See hospicefoundation.ie/nnc caring for someone at home. See hospicefoundation.ie/nnc Bereavement Support Line A national freephone service - 1800 80 70 77, set up by Irish Hospice Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Nurses for Night Care We fund the Nurses for Night Care service for people dying with illnesses other than cancer. Nurses for Night Care enable people with diseases like dementia, motor neurone disease, advanced respiratory disease, heart failure and end stage kidney disease to receive expert nursing care and support at night in their own homes in their final days. It also provides reassurance and respite for families and loved ones 63 Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Palliative Care for All programme Many people associate palliative care only with cancer, but palliative care can be provided to any person living with a life-limiting disease, advancing neurological illness, chronic kidney disease and dementia. We provide information and resources for those care can be provided to any person living with a life-limiting disease, advancing neurological illness, chronic kidney disease and dementia. We provide information and resources for those Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed education and training in end-of-life and bereavement care. From our MSc in Loss & Bereavement, grief in the workplace, to our bereavement workshops, there is a wide spectrum of training to choose from. See www.hospicefoundation.ie practice palliative care, at all levels, and within all settings, in Ireland. Our Palliative Care Programmes endeavour to align with the work of the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, whose Model of Care , published in 2019, aims that: “Every person with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition can easily access a level of palliative care appropriate to their needs, regardless of care setting or diagnosis, in order to optimise quality of life”. “Every person with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition can easily access a level of palliative care appropriate to their needs, regardless of care setting or diagnosis, in order to optimise quality of life”. Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Primary Palliative Care is the programme focussed on supporting the delivery of care to people who have advancing life-limiting conditions living at home in the community. See https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-am-seriously-ill/ palliative-care/ Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie Palliative Care Palliative Care Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie Our Our Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie best best Think Ahead - Advance Care Planning Think Ahead is a practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps you document your healthcare choices and personal wishes. Here you will find resources to help you start to think and talk about your preferences for end of life. You can get your Think Ahead Planning pack at thinkahead.ie or calling Irish Hospice Foundation on (01) 679 3188 . Primary Palliative Care is the programme focussed on supporting the delivery of care to people who have advancing life-limiting conditions living at home in the community. See https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-am-seriously-ill/ palliative-care/ Primary Palliative Care is the programme focussed on supporting the delivery of care to people who have advancing life-limiting conditions living at home in the community. See https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-am-seriously-ill/ palliative-care/ Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed education and training in end-of-life and bereavement care. From our MSc in Loss & Bereavement, grief in the workplace, to our bereavement workshops, there is a wide spectrum of training to choose from. See www.hospicefoundation.ie working with patients with life-limiting conditions such as these. working with patients with life-limiting conditions such as these. care can be provided to any person living with a life-limiting disease, advancing neurological illness, chronic kidney disease and dementia. We provide information and resources for those working with patients with life-limiting conditions such as these. Registered Charity Number 20013554 Palliative Care for All programme Many people associate palliative care only with cancer, but palliative Palliative Care for All programme Many people associate palliative care only with cancer, but palliative IHF Bereavement & Loss Hub As a national leader in the development of bereavement care, we are working in collaboration with bereavement care providers and charities to provide information, resources and programmes for individuals, families, communities and workplaces. Visit www.bereaved.ie Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed education and training in end-of-life and bereavement care. From our MSc in Loss & Bereavement, grief in the workplace, to our bereavement workshops, there is a wide spectrum of training to choose from. See www.hospicefoundation.ie For more information on how Irish Hospice Foundation can support you and your constituents who are facing dying, death and bereavement. Children’s Palliative Care For more information on how Irish Hospice Foundation can support you and your constituents who are facing dying, death and bereavement. 15 practice palliative care, at all levels, and within all settings, in Ireland. Our Palliative Care Programmes endeavour to align with the work of the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, whose Model of Care , published in 2019, aims that: practice palliative care, at all levels, and within all settings, in Ireland. Our Palliative Care Programmes endeavour to align with the work of the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, whose Model of Care , published in 2019, aims that: “Every person with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition can easily access a level of palliative care appropriate to their needs, regardless of care setting or diagnosis, in order to optimise quality of life”. in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. 63 IHF has a number of bereavement resources and support leaflets, see www.bereaved.ie which are suitable to download or if you would like to order leaflets in bulk, please contact us on 01 679 3188 or email info@hospicefoundation.ie . Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. . caring for someone at home. See hospicefoundation.ie/nnc Palliative Care Our best Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. hospicefoundation.ie info@hospicefoundation.ie Irish Hospice Foundation • Annual Report 2022
IHF Resources and information to support people who are facing end of life and their families who are facing end of life and their families IHF Resources & Information to Support People who are Bereaved IHF Resources and information to support people who are bereaved we have been working in partnership with the HSE and other charities to ensure that the needs of children and their families are met and services are being delivered. Grieving the Death of Someone Close
Useful Resources Further suggested reading is available from our Thérèse Brady Library, library@hospicefoundation.ie Bereavement & Loss Hub www.bereaved.ie Bereavement Support Line Freephone 1800 80 70 77. Available Monday to Friday, 10am-1pm. In partnership with the HSE. Produced by Irish Hospice Foundation’s Bereavement Education & Resource Centre info@hospicefoundation.ie (01) 679 3188 www.hospicefoundation.ie
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Palliative Care What is it and who is it for ? Palliative Care What is it and who is it for ? Palliative Care What is it and who is it for ?
Our information booklet for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more . Our information booklet for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more . people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more . 62 Our information booklet for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make
Children’s Palliative Care Children’s Palliative Care
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our beginnings Irish Hospice Foundation have sought to ensure the our beginnings Irish Hospice Foundation have sought to ensure the Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed our beginnings Irish Hospice Foundation have sought to ensure the needs of these children and their families are met. For over a decade hospicefoundation.ie info@hospicefoundation.ie . .
port People who are Bereaved port people who are bereaved IHF Resources & Information to Support People who are Bereaved IHF Resources and information to support people who are bereaved
Bereavement Support Line A national freephone service - 1800 80 70 77, set up by Irish Hospice Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie When Someone You Care About is Dying in a Nursing Home - What to Expect Available at https://caru.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CARU- What-to-Expect-Booklet.pdf Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie When someone you care about is dying in hospital – What to expect You can find it on our website here hospicefoundation.ie or order copies from www.healthpromotion.ie . Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. hospicefoundation.ie info@hospicefoundation.ie This booklet and other free leaflets on grief from the HSE and Irish Hospice Foundation are available to order or download on www. healthpromotion.ie Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed education and training in end-of-life and bereavement care. From our MSc in Loss & Bereavement, grief in the workplace, to our bereavement workshops, there is a wide spectrum of training to choose from. See www.hospicefoundation.ie HSE Bereavement Booklet The ‘Bereavement: When someone close dies’ booklet describes practical For more information on how Irish Hospice Foundation can support you and your constituents who are facing dying, death and bereavement. and emotional issues that you may face when someone close dies. https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/publications/health-and- wellbeing/hse-bereavement-when-someone-close-dies- booklet-2022.pdf Children’s Grief Irish Childhood Bereavement Network has advice on talking to children about death and grief. www.childhoodbereavement.ie
Bereavement Support Line A national freephone service - 1800 80 70 77, set up by Irish Hospice Foundation, in partnership with the HSE, that provides a safe space for those who have lost a loved one, friend or colleague, to talk about their loss and grief. People can also visit www.bereaved.ie for more information on coping with bereavement and finding supports. Think Ahead A practical tool and customisable guide for advance care planning and end of life. It helps a person document their healthcare choices and personal wishes, for a future time when they may not be able to make or express those decisions. Think Ahead is in full alignment with the recently commenced Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. See www.thinkahead.ie Grief in the Workplace We provide support, training, resources and advice to help organisations and managers to respond effectively to grief situations that can arise in the workplace. We offer a range of interactive courses which focus on coping with grief in the workplace. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Local Bereavement Networks Through our networks, which work across the country, we are committed to supporting local and national stakeholders to support best practice in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie in the area of bereavement care in Ireland and to promote a better understanding of bereavement supports for children and adults. Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed education and training in end-of-life and bereavement care. From our MSc in Loss & Bereavement, grief in the workplace, to our bereavement workshops, there is a wide spectrum of training to choose from. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN) ICBN supports professionals to deliver quality and accessible support to children who are bereaved. The ICBN signposts loved ones to a directory of bereavement support services. It also advocates for bereaved children and young people, and those supporting them. See www.childhoodbereavement.ie Education We work with staff in a variety of settings to support and embed education and training in end-of-life and bereavement care. From our MSc in Loss & Bereavement, grief in the workplace, to our bereavement workshops, there is a wide spectrum of training to choose from. See www.hospicefoundation.ie Registered Charity Number 20013554 Irish Hospice Foundation • Annual Report 2022 caru.ie 09/01/2025 16:54
When someone you care about is dying in hospital - What to expect -
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When Someone You Care About is Dying in a Nursing Home
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Bereavement When someone close dies
Practical and emotional support at a difficult time
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hospicefoundation.ie info@hospicefoundation.ie Palliative Care Our information booklet, ‘Palliative Care - what is it and who is it for?’, for those diagnosed with a life-limiting condition provides information about palliative care that aims to make people feel comfortable and supported throughout their illness. Read more at https://www.hospicefoundation.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ lrish-Hospice-Palliative-Care-Booklet.pdf For more information on how Irish Hospice Foundation can support you and your constituents who are facing dying, death and bereavement.
Palliative Care What is it and who is it for?
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For more information on how Irish Hospice Foundation can support you and your constituents who are facing dying, death and bereavement. Registered Charity Number 20013554 Irish Hospice Foundation • Annual Report 2022
hospicefoundation.ie info@hospicefoundation.ie
Irish Hospice Foundation • Annual Report 2022
Registered Charity Number 20013554 Citizens Information Citizens Information Board has published information on a range of practical concerns you may have when someone close to you dies. Visit www.citizensinformation.ie
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Irish Hospice Foundation Morrison Chambers, 32 Nassau Street, Dublin 2, D02 X627. (01) 679 3188 | info@hospicefoundation.ie | hospicefoundation.ie
Registered Charity Number 20013554
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