A Gentle Guide to Accompany the Dying

When a person is dying, she is retreating from everything outside of her. She has little energy for anything outside of what is going on in her internal world.

She cannot respond the same to conversation. It takes much effort to answer questions. To engage someone in the normal back and forth conversational style can be overwhelming for her. Instead, tell a story. Tell her what you did today or whatever is on your mind. But don’t ask questions. What she has energy to tell, she will. Do not be concerned if she does not respond to you the way she used to or even with a hint of a smile. She cannot.

It is not about you. Just keep talking to her if you want to verbally connect. Otherwise, your presence is enough.