How do you comfort a dying parent?
06/04/25 at 02:00 AM
How do you comfort a dying parent?
U.S. News & World Report - WTOP News; 6/1/25
Caring for a parent who is dying can be emotionally taxing. ... Here are ten tips for how to conduct a caring conversation with someone who is dying — and how to know when to sit in silence too.
- Assess for Distress ...
- Ask Open-Ended Questions ...
- Don't Rush It ...
- Let Them Lead the Conversation ...
- Use Wish-Worry Phrases ...
- Avoid Platitudes ...
- Don't Pretend to Know How It Feels ...
- Offer Compliments and Validation ...
- Be Mindful of Body Language ...
- Show Support in Silence ...
Editor's note: While this title identifies a dying "parent," this primer is good for communicating with anyone who is dying. Call all non-clinical leaders: Practice these within the scope of your interactions with persons who are dying. Because of your hospice/palliative, your communications will be observed and will reflect upon the services your organization provides. "Actions speak louder than words."