Baycrest - End of Life Volunteer Manual
40
persons from the past or hear voices. Family members may find this
distressing, especially if the person is also waving their arms or
moving their legs. Reassure them that this is similar to sleepwalking
and does not cause the person any discomfort.
BREATHING CHANGES
A dying person's breathing changes dramatically. It may be laboured
and there may be unusually long pauses between breaths. Gasps are
also common. The person's lips may be bluish and their skin cool to
the touch.
THE "DEATH RATTLE"
Perhaps the most distressing sign is the so-called "death rattle".
This is the result of secretions collecting in the throat and lungs. A
palliative care physician can manage "death rattle" to help reduce
the stress on the family. The "death rattle" does not bother the
person as it occurs very close to the actual death and the patient is
in a reduced state of consciousness.
SIGNS THAT A PERSON IS NEARING DEATH
• Sleeping longer/talking less
• Eating and drinking less
• Trouble swallowing or forgetting to swallow
• Becoming confused – not recognizing time of day or people –
and needing more reassurance
• Becoming restless
• Breathing becoming irregular, shallow or "wet" sounding
• Making vocal sounds, often unconsciously
• Irregular heartbeat
• Not reacting to voice or touch
• Feeling less pain
• Eyes remain open even when the person is asleep
• Having vision-like experiences
• Becoming confused or disoriented about familiar things, such as
time, place and the identity of family and friends
