Changes in the way the body works are a normal part of the dying process. Your hospice care team can help you understand what changes to expect and how the pain and stress of dying can be minimized.
Some of the natural changes that occur include:
- Less appetite or interest in food
- Loss of bladder and bowel control, change in color or consistency
- Breathing rate or pattern
- Body temperature
- Skin appearance
- Mental state or behavior
- Sleeping more or being unresponsive
Some patients or caregivers report of dying people seeing visions, frequently of loved ones who have died previously. Sometimes the patient may speak of going on a journey or “going home”. These are not uncommon experiences and should not cause you concern.