Losing a parent is like losing a part of who you are. It is important during their end of life journey that, when needed, 24 hour home care is available to your family. Not only will these services be immeasurably helpful for your mother or father, they will be there for you as well. When a parent is dying, whether they are physically or emotionally suffering, it is important to address their needs as well as your own emotional needs. Families often travel through grieving stages even before the last breath is taken.

Providers of 24 hour home care will encourage you and your loved one to share thoughts and beliefs about death and life that will enable both of you to come to terms with this loss as it is happening. This should be a time of when mom or dad’s opinions are the focus of the conversation. Explore their needs and let them guide you. If your parent’s memory is deteriorating due to dementia, it is important to have those conversations sooner rather than later. It’s ok to hold on to the beautiful memories, however, holding on to the person who may no longer be there in body and soul may not be fair and may contradict their wishes.

As the end of life approaches, not only will providers of 24 hour home care witness the changes in your parent, you will sense the changes as well.  Your parent’s breathing will change as will their complexion. Mom or dad may sleep more, eat less, and have difficulty speaking. As death approaches, you may start to hope for recovery when it’s not possible. What is possible is the ability to provide the comfort and love your parent needs during this difficult time.

Sometimes the strength for saying goodbye comes directly from your loved one. Your parent may rally to provide you the strength you need to move forward. For others, it comes from inside; you may need to assure your parent that you will be ok when they are gone.