What Are the Stages of Death and What to Do
Dying is a painfully individual experience but it shares common physiological patterns for most humans.
From the shift in clinical signs to the subsequent breakdown of biological functions and eventual cellular disintegration, the process of dying is relatively well-documented. Understanding what the stages of death are helps us prepare and assist those close to us most adequately.
- Early stage — Clinical transition; fading of signs that marks the beginning of death
- Middle stage — Biological deterioration; essential organ function begins to decline
- Late stage — Cellular breakdown; individual cells begin to disintegrate
Each stage is also recognizable by distinct signs and symptoms displayed by the dying.
The Three Medical Stages of Death
As the final moments of life come closer, a remarkable shift occurs in both body and mind.
In these last stages of life, we witness distinct physical changes. Organs gradually shut down, breathing patterns alter, and circulation slows.
Simultaneously, the mind experiences profound shifts in consciousness. Subjectively, these changes in perception are unique, but most of their physical manifestations have been documented.
Early Stage of Dying
The early stages of dying bring about a range of feelings and sensations. Particularly pronounced in cancer patients, unpleasant bodily sensations are signs that death is near.
Patients often exhibit a decline in eating and drinking, and eating becomes burdensome rather than enjoyable, as the body conserves energy, requiring less nourishment.
Physical symptoms such as heightened aches, fatigue can start to set in. Emotionally, mood swings and a shift in mental well-being occur, often fueled by the fear of death or leaving loved ones behind, accompanied by a decreasing interest in regular activities.
What You Can Do
In the final moments before death, providing compassionate care involves attending to both the physical and emotional needs of the individual and their loved ones.
- Keep communication simple and comforting
- Moisturize the lips to alleviate dryness
- Adjust bedding and surroundings for maximum comfort
- Allow for moments of silence and reflection
- Ensure loved ones have the opportunity to say their goodbyes
- Collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure dignity in the final moments
The Kubler-Ross Model and the Psychology of Dying
The Kubler-Ross Model, crafted by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, sheds light on the emotional journey people face when dealing with impending death or loss.
Born from her interactions with the terminally ill, the model outlines five stages of grief:
- Denial — Initially, individuals struggle with disbelief, resisting the harsh reality of impending death or loss. It serves as a shield, offering temporary respite from overwhelming emotions.
- Anger — As reality sets in, individuals may shift to a stage of intense anger, directed inward or outward; a natural outcry against perceived injustice and helplessness.
- Bargaining — This phase is marked by a yearning for control, making deals with a higher power to alter the seemingly inevitable.
- Depression — The fourth stage brings a profound sense of sorrow and mourning for the impending loss.
- Acceptance — Finally, the last stage is a gradual embrace of the unavoidable, not promising happiness but signifying genuine acknowledgment and accommodation of the circumstances. Acceptance becomes a path towards peace and finding meaning in the experience.
It’s a human roadmap, offering insights into the rollercoaster of emotions during grief.
Understanding Death
Outside the medical symptoms of death, dying often comes with deep individual values and beliefs.
The cultural perspectives on death vary remarkably. Hinduism sees it as a gateway to rebirth, whereas Christianity’s focus in on transitioning to an afterlife.
Buddhism considers death to be a step in a continuous cycle of existence, while Native American perspectives view it as a transformation into another form of life.
In ancient Egypt, death was the beginning of a soul’s journey to the afterworld. Existentialist philosophy weaves death into life’s fabric, shaping its meaning.
Some believe that as one is dying they may see a glimpse of an unknown reality, adding to the mystery and sacredness of the farewell.
Understanding what the dying believes in can help massively in providing them with comfort by speaking their language.
Being Present and Saying Goodbye
Regardless of the emotional (and often logistical) difficulty, being present for a dying loved one is invaluable. Being engaged, listening, and sharing in the final moments not only brings solace to the departing but also creates lasting memories of care and closure for those left behind.
It’s a poignant acknowledgment of the shared human experience, transcending words. Many also choose to extend this care into a home funeral, allowing for a personalized and intimate farewell that further honors the departed’s unique journey.
For every ending, comes a new beginning. Live well, end well.
Join over 30 million people who trust Endwll to stay on top of it all, from health and wellness to funeral planning.
For every ending, comes a new beginning. Live well, end well.
Join over 30 million people who trust Endwll to stay on top of it all, from health and wellness to funeral planning.
