What is the best thing to say to someone with terminal cancer?
To start a conversation, it can help to say things like 'I know this is very difficult, but maybe it would help if we talked about how we feel, and what the future may bring'. Let them know that you feel sad too. Sharing feelings will help you both cope better.
How do you emotionally support someone with terminal cancer?
Talking, listening, and just being there are some of the most important things you can do. During this time, the natural r esponse of most caregivers is to put their own feelings and needs aside. They try to focus on the person with cancer and the many tasks of caregiving. This may be fine for a little while.
"Don't say things like 'let me know if you need anything'," advises Lyons. "Instead, do things: cook some food, clean the house, send cards, keep in touch often. Lots of people send flowers which is lovely, but when those flowers die, make sure they get thrown away.
Instead of hearing “What can I do?” cancer patients want to hear that you already have a specific task in mind. Many cancer patients will decline needing help when they are asked the broad question “What can I help with?” Choose something specific and get started on it.
Ring them up, send a card, note or text to say you're thinking of them. Let them know that if they want to talk you'll be there to listen - then make sure you are available. Respect their need for privacy. Offer support throughout the whole diagnosis - at the beginning, during and after treatment.
Showing empathy, offering physical touch like the above, and offering a chance to talk, are good ways to support a patient that's crying. Encourage them to think about how they want to be cared for. This may help them feel more in control, and help others understand what's important to them.
Visual or auditory hallucinations are often part of the dying experience. The appearance of family members or loved ones who have died is common. These visions are considered normal. The dying may turn their focus to “another world” and talk to people or see things that others do not see.
Terminal restlessness generally occurs in the last few days of life. Around 42 percent of hospice patients experience agitation during their final 48 hours. But even more develop symptoms before then, which may not subside until death.
Survivors are well advised to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. They can live with hope for a cure, a remission, or stable cancer without suffering and enjoy high quality of life with family and friends for as long as possible.
Talking about dying can help someone with a terminal illness to express their concerns and fears, and help them to make plans for what's important to them. It can bring up uncomfortable emotions for you and for the person who is dying, but there are things you can do to make the conversation easier and more meaningful.
How do you communicate with an end of life patient?
Avoid jargon and unclear language – for example say "dying" instead of "passing away". Find out how they express discomfort or pain. Allow enough time for conversations – be patient and ready to repeat yourself if needed. Check they understand by asking them to repeat what you said, using their own words if possible.
You might be unable to stop crying and worrying. Or you might feel that there is no point in doing anything. You might also find it difficult to see life going on as normal for most people. It can feel very strange to watch people go about their daily lives, do shopping, drive, and work.
