Patients and loved ones facing the end stages of life must confront numerous challenges, including the fear and uncertainty of death. Knowing this phase of life can be difficult, Karrie Gerber, MSW, LSW, hospice social worker, Parkview Home Health & Hospice, offers support and guidance on minimizing and coping with the anxieties surrounding the end of life.
Why the end of life is a frightening concept
When you hear “end of life,” where does your mind take you? For most people, it means loss and inevitable change. It’s having to say goodbye and confront the reality of losing someone you love. And in some cases, the end of life is sometimes associated with failure or guilt. People often feel they haven’t done something well or right. But when it comes to the end stages of life, there is no “right.” It’s not easy to talk about, but addressing your feelings and finding ways to cope can benefit everyone involved.
Common fears surrounding the end of life
Some common fears people encounter during the final stages of life can include the following:
- Fear of suffering – As someone nears the end of their life, many people (patients and loved ones alike) worry about what will happen to them. Wondering if they will experience pain or discomfort, be short of breath, feel agitated, restless and more.
- Fear of losing control – Many patients have difficulty coping with their loss of independence as their physical abilities decline. Families and loved ones have a hard time with this fear too. Caregiving is a unique role that many are nervous about taking on. It can be disheartening to realize you are dealing with a situation you can’t fix.
- Fear of isolation – One of the greatest fears patients have and struggle with is feeling abandoned, isolated or alone near the end of their life.
- Fear of the unknown – Patients from all walks of life are afraid that they’ve left things undone or worry about what will happen to their loved ones when they’re gone. Will they be okay? How will they manage without me? It can range from extremely practical items like paying bills and transferring car titles to more emotional matters or relationships that may not have a resolution. Friends and loved ones also face this fear, often questioning how they will live and do life without this person.
How to effectively address end-of-life fear and anxiety
The most significant steps anyone can take are being present, willing to listen and communicate while loving that person well. These things are a huge part of coping with and minimizing the fear, stress and anxiety that arises during the end of someone’s life.
Beyond that, your hospice care team is a phenomenal resource. At Parkview, we pride ourselves on a team approach and on providing patients and their loved ones with the support they need to navigate the end stages of life. Whether at home or in a facility, we offer comfort and support in the following ways:
- Personal physician
- Hospice medical director
- Registered nurse
- Home health aide
- Social worker
- Chaplain
- Volunteers
- Pharmacist
- Massage therapist
- Bereavement support services
Remember, everyone’s journey is different. But we are here, ready and willing to stand beside and walk this path with you.
Helpful resources
For more information about hospice, palliative care services, or dealing with grief, please call 260-373-9800. We are happy to answer all of your questions.
