Reflections for the Final Days of Life:
As you think about this important time, here are some gentle questions that might help you express your wishes:
- Would you prefer the room to feel cool or warm?
- How do you feel about having your family around you?
- Is there any music that resonates with you and would bring you comfort?
- If you were to face an infection, would you prefer antibiotics, or would you feel more at ease with comfort measures only?
- Do you have any particular religious or spiritual practices that you’d like to be honored during your final days?
- When it comes to covering your feet, do you feel more comfortable with blankets or socks, or would you prefer to keep them exposed?
- Is there a specific scent, such as from a candle, melting wax, or incense, that would bring you peace in your room?
- Are there certain loved ones you would like by your side when you take your last breath?
- Would having your beloved pets nearby provide you with comfort during this time?
- Would you be open to holistic comfort measures like massage or acupressure to enhance your sense of well-being?
- How do you feel about the idea of using oxygen, or would you prefer alternative methods for easing breathing, like morphine?
- Are there particular foods that evoke feelings of comfort that you’d like to savor?
- Aside from music, are there other soothing sounds, such as white noise, ocean waves, or gentle wind, that you'd love to hear during this period?
- Would you prefer your hair to be tied back or left down?
- What type of fabric brings you the most comfort to wear?
- Lastly, what material would you find most comforting for your blanket during this time—fleece, cotton flannel, microfleece, velvet, cashmere, or velvet flannel?
These questions are merely a starting point. Remember, no one knows your needs and desires better than you do. It’s important to have open and heartfelt conversations with your loved ones so that you can shape the experience you wish for as you approach the end of life. Your comfort and peace of mind are what truly matter.
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