Understanding the end of life
What do we mean by the ‘end of life’?
The end of life can be one of the most fragile periods we experience. There are often a lot of emotions, and a lot of things to do. The term ‘end of life’ typically applies to anywhere within the final 6 to 12 months of a person’s life.
Below is a video by Theos in collaboration with Dr Kathryn Mannix, called Dying for Beginners. In it, Dr Mannix talks about what normally happens when we die:
What is palliative care?
Palliative care means support that is given to a person when they are diagnosed with a terminal illness. It can span a long time, including years. To find out more about what palliative care is, click here to visit Marie Curie’s page which explains it.
What is hospice care?
Rowcroft Hospice in Torquay provides expert care to people at the end of life, both at the hospice and in people’s own homes. To find out more about what hospice care is and how Rowcroft Hospice can help, click here to go to their website.
What to expect at the end of life
The end of a person’s life can bring some changes. For example, a person may lose some or all of their appetite; they may sleep for longer periods of time; and they might drift in and out of consciousness. All of this is normal. Marie Curie has put together some information about what to expect in the last weeks, last days and hours, and the final moments of life.