Terminal cancer and various other diseases and illnesses mean that many people are faced with the reality that their loved ones are going to die. Knowing how to handle this is very complicated and so, because everyone handles things differently, there are therefore no hard and fast rules on how to cope or what to do.
Some may find it easier than losing a loved one with no prior warning as it gives them time to say goodbye. For others, watching their loved ones deteriorate is one of the most heart-breaking things they will ever have to contend with and is something they will never get over.
You don't know how you will react until you are in that situation, but in a bid to make things slightly easier, we've put together a list of 3 things that might help you be more prepared.
Let close family and friends know
If you know that your loved one's death is imminent, letting close family and friends know is probably a wise decision. That is, of course, only if the person in question feels comfortable with it. Many people who are dying don't want many people knowing about it, while others want to have the chance to say goodbye. Having others around may also help you deal with things and give you a break when you need it.
Consider the funeral
Only you will know if this is appropriate to ask but if you feel that your loved one wants input into their funeral, then have a chat with them about any preferences they may have. For example, they might already be paying into Open Care life insurance, or another life insurance plan, that can offer financial help during this tough time. This will give you time to make the necessary inquiries as to how best to implement their final wishes.
It will also allow you to find out what may or may not be financially viable. According to Green Cremation Texas, a Fredericksburg funeral home, the cost of a traditional funeral has continuously gotten more expensive over the years.
So, although there is no immediate urgency, having a rough idea of what it may cost could make things easier on you when dealing with the arrangements further down the line.
Know what to expect
One of the most upsetting things when dealing with a loved one who is dying is not knowing what's coming next. They may, for example, become more tired or have trouble sleeping as their final day's approach. It may be that they are unable to walk or dress themselves so you may need to get carers or live-in homecare assistance to help deal with their day to day needs. Anticipating their needs could make things a lot easier for you and ease the upset as time goes on, so it's worthwhile doing some research so you have an idea of what to expect.
Seeing a loved one dying might be one of the hardest things you will ever have to contend with, so you must do what you can to make it easier for yourself.