End of life care is a term used to describe how people who are nearing the end of their life (dying) can be cared for so that they don’t experience unnecessary pain, anxiety and stress. You may find yourself supporting someone who is in the final stages of their life, even if you are not an ‘end of life care’ specialist. It’s important for you to link to support, gain extra direction and to feel confident and able to make a positive contribution when it is needed.
As a person nears the end of their life, it is important to make sure you are doing what you can to keep the person comfortable. The Liverpool Care Pathway is a nationally recognised tool which can help at this time. Good communication skills are vital for working with both the person with dementia and the person’s family.
End of life care
It is sometimes hard to predict how long a person has to live and people show different signs. People generally become weaker, may feel sick or find it difficult to eat and take their medication. If this happens it is important to consider the need for medication and how this can be provided in a different way.
As the illness progresses the person is likely to become weaker and sleepier each day. Even when a person is drowsy or asleep, the person may still hear what is being said, music or singing, and can take comfort from hearing these sounds.
Some people may become restless, agitated or confused as they near the end of life because the person is not drinking and the body is no longer working properly. This can lead to the person behaving out of character.
Towards the end some people may lapse into unconsciousness. How long the person remains unconscious before they die varies from person to person. Some people die in their sleep.
Further learning
The National End of Life Care Programme website is designed to support health and social care staff working, in any capacity, with people nearing the end of life http://www.endoflifecareforadults.nhs.uk/.