Over time as the illness progresses, there may be more caring needs. There may also be new symptoms or symptoms may change in frequency and severity. Being able to continue to be free of symptoms like pain and nausea is important. Doctors and nurses can help in managing any change in symptoms. It may also be reassuring to talk to a doctor about any things that are causing concern or worry.

As someone approaches the end of their life they may become increasingly drowsy and removed. They may be less interested in eating and drinking and may need changes in medications. There may be increased assistance required in their hands on care. There may be more visits from health professionals. 

The doctor, community or palliative care nurse can explain what these changes mean and what stage has been reached. It is useful to maintain close contact with the nurses and other health professionals who can provide support and guidance. This can help people to feel less alone. They can also provide useful advice on how to manage any particular caring matters. This contact may also help avoid an unplanned ambulance call and an admission to hospital through the Emergency Department.

Often there are signs that death is imminent. This may offer a chance to get family and friends together. Sometimes though, a person will die quickly with no warning.

Family members also may have expectations of what will happen based on previous experiences. However death is not always predictable.

Resources

• The Cancer Council Victoria’s website has a page about death and dying taken from a booklet for carers entitled “When the Cancer won't go away.
• The Cancer Council has a website called Cancer Connections with information about what happens in the final days of life.
• The National Cancer Institute has a section on common End-of-Life Care: Questions and Answers. 
   

Related CareSearch pages
Planning for the future
Changes at the time of death
 

This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011