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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