Knowing that your loved one is near the end of her life is never easy. For most of those who have reached a point where the end of life is near, they have already traveled a long path to get there. Perhaps they have battled a disease for years or decades, or perhaps an injury has become so severe that there are no solutions for repairing it.
If your loved one has been ill for some time, she may have indicated in the past that when her end is near, she’d prefer to be home to receive her end of life care. The comfort and familiarity that home can provide can be enticing for those who are nearing the end, and when possible, granting this desire can help make their final days more pleasant and offer family members the opportunity to connect with them in meaningful ways.
Six Physical Discomfort Causes During End of Life Care
Having your loved one in your home for her end of life care also means you’ll want to work with an end of life care provider to help you learn about what signs you should watch for that may indicate your loved one is uncomfortable, in pain, or needs help.
There are six areas that many people who are receiving end of life care will need help with so they can be more comfortable.
#1 Pain
Pain is the most common issue for those about to pass from an injury or severe illness. It can be pain from being bed-bound, pain from changes due to the disease, or just about anything else. As a caregiver, staying on top of administering pain medication so that you can prevent pain will be easier to manage than trying to relieve pain once it starts.
#2 Digestive Issues
Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and loss of appetite are common occurrences at the end of life. While working with your end of life care team is essential to finding solutions to vomiting or constipation, remember that many people stop eating as the end of life draws near, and this is a normal process.
#3 Skin Irritation
Dry skin and bed sores can occur when someone is not mobile anymore. Sponge baths with a gentle soap and plenty of lotion will help. Help your loved one change positions regularly to prevent bed sores.
#4 Breathing Problems
As your loved one gets closer to her final hours, her breathing patterns may change. Understanding this process will help you as the caregiver know what is normal.
#5 Temperature Sensitivity
Your loved one may experience difficulty regulating their body temperature, either getting cold easily or becoming overly warm quickly. Watch for signs of how she is managing the room’s temperature, such as shivering or kicking off blankets.
#6 Lethargy
It’s not uncommon for people to lose all energy near the end and only want to rest in bed. Make sure she has what she needs near her.
End of Life Care Can Help You Care for Your Loved One
Having a support team to help you find solutions for issues, offer support when you’re worn out, and provide resources when you need them is key to helping you provide the best care possible for your loved one when the time comes. From physical care needs to mental and spiritual care, end of life care can provide your loved one with the honor and respect she deserves as she ends her journey here.
If you or an aging loved one is considering End of Life Care in Brookfield, WI, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services today. Call (414) 206-2090
At Talem Home Care of Milwaukee, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Brookfield, Cudahy, Delafield, Franklin, Greendale, Greenfield, Hales Corners, Milwaukee, Mukwonago, Muskego, New Berlin, Oak Creek, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Shorewood, South Milwaukee, Waukesha, Wauwatosa, West Allis and surrounding areas in Wisconsin.
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