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.

  1. Assess for Distress ...
  2. Ask Open-Ended Questions ...
  3. Don't Rush It ...
  4. Let Them Lead the Conversation ...
  5. Use Wish-Worry Phrases ...
  6. Avoid Platitudes ...
  7. Don't Pretend to Know How It Feels ...
  8. Offer Compliments and Validation ...
  9. Be Mindful of Body Language ...
  10. 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."

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