Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Using A Hospice Book On The Dying Process

By Jennifer Martin


In 1997, Kansas City, cancer sufferer William Bartholme described dying as a lived, experienced, condition, rather than a medical process. It can be said that from the moment we are born, we begin the process of dying. It comes to all of us, yet, as a society, we are chronically unprepared for it. Whether we have been diagnosed with a terminal illness or are supporting a loved one, a hospice book on the dying process might help us get ready for what lies ahead.

Nobody likes talking about mortality. It's almost as if we would rather be surprised at a death in the family than have to deal with it for weeks or months beforehand. Even when the moment is expected, when the inevitable does happen, it is still a major shock. Having a terminal diagnosis allows the individual and their loved ones to prepare themselves financially, practically and emotionally. While nothing can substitute for frank and personal discussions with health professionals and bereavement survivors, the age of the Internet allows the privilege of instant access to the right books written by people with experience in dealing with the process of dying.

Once the shock has worn off that death is on the horizon, families can begin to prepare themselves for the inevitable. Physical changes will take place that will be influenced by the patient's condition. As a caregiver, you will want to know how the person feels about organ donation and whether or not they wish to be resuscitated should the need arise.

Every person is different in how they handle the last few months and weeks of life. Some people are calm and composed while others are terrified. Some people take it as it comes while others want to maintain every last moment of control.

The same could be said of friends and relatives. In addition to managing the physical and medical issues, there will be a barrage of emotions to manage. Hopefully, the event will enable people to reconcile long-standing differences.

It is important to discuss with the individual concerned what their wishes are with regard to organ donation. It will be easier on everyone concerned if there are clear-cut instructions. The same can be said about end-of-life care and resuscitation. They may not want to be kept alive artificially. The doctor and the patient can sign a document called a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) if this is the person's wishes.

Some people prefer to spend their last days in the comfort of their own homes. Others may require intensive medical care in addition to palliative care. It is useful in both cases to explain the legalities of each situation. In some places, the police are required to attend; this can frighten the relatives if they are not expecting it.

While every individual case is different, there are certain aspects that they have in common, and it is helpful for caregivers to have a book where they can look things up. The experience is much easier, or, at least, less fraught if everyone has an idea of what to expect.




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