End of Life Stages

When a loved one is terminally ill, or an elderly family member is rapidly declining, and death looms closer with each passing day, there are certain stages caretakers and others close to the dying will observe. These steps are part of the natural progression toward death.

Sleep

• The dying person will begin to sleep more. It often becomes more difficult for him to awaken. This is caused by changes in the body's metabolism. As death grows even closer, the individual may breath heavily and sleep with his eyes open.

Appetite

• Also as a result of the body's slowing metabolism, the dying individual may begin to eat less and drink less. This decline in appetite will get greater as death gets closer.

Confusion

• The dying individual may become confused about dates and times, and even the identity of people they know well. This is the result of chemical changes that are taking place in the body.

Breathing

• Breathing patterns will also begin to change. Delays in breathing of 10 to 30 seconds may occur, especially at night. This may begin months before death and is caused by decreases in circulation and the accumulation of waste products within the body. As death grows closer, oral secretions cause a "rattle" in the back of the throat.

Body Function

• The dying individual will begin to lose function of parts of her body. She may become incontinent. Clarity of vision and hearing may be diminished. Body temperature will fluctuate as death grows closer. The dying individual may perspire or be clammy.

Circulation

• As circulation decreases, the dying individual may feel cool to the touch. His skin may appear blue, blotchy or spongy. As death grows closer, the dying individual may have a decrease in blood pressure and increase in pulse rate.