Being at Peace Before Death

The first steps to peace before death can be achieved by having a Living Will, including an Advance Directive and a Durable Power of Attorney.

Have open communications with all members of the care giving team.

Recognize that the major event at the end of life is death and not the prolongation of life.

Remain active: Physical therapy helps at least 50% of patients in hospice: Physical therapy in end of life care

Alternative care: yoga, meditation.

Anti-anxiety drugs from the primary doctor if needed.

• Resolving differences
• Saying good bye to family and friends
• Completing projects
• Visiting places
• Visiting loved ones

• Upcoming births
• Weddings
• Graduations
• Reunions
• Religious Holidays
• Anniversaries
• Completing a visit to a person or place

This depends upon the patient's wishes.

Coordination of friends can be accomplished by loved ones.

Fear of dying alone is a major common fear.

As time shortens, it is more about people than about things and events.

Hospice can put patients and caregivers in touch with others, creating social networks.

Prepayment for funerals, caskets or cremations can also help you achieve peace before death.

If this is part of general planning for patients who do not have a terminal diagnosis, it is best not to prepay as there is no guarantee the firm will still be around when needed.

If the end is near, prepayment may be an option.