What to Expect When Your Loved One Is Dying: The Good Death

"If you've ever read What to Expect When You're Expecting, you'll know how reassuring it is to have a clear, compassionate guide during life's biggest transitions. But what about the opposite end of life? According to an AARP study, the number of family caregivers has jumped to 63 million Americans, representing a 45 percent increase, or nearly 20 million more caregivers, over the past decade, according to a joint report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC)."

"Dying is not a medical experience-it is a natural, sacred one. With the right education, compassion, and support, it can go beautifully. And it begins with knowing what to expect. At Doulagivers, we teach that there are three distinct phases at the end of life. Understanding these phases and how to best support your loved one during each one can transform fear into love and crisis into peace."

An AARP study shows family caregivers increased to 63 million Americans, a 45 percent rise—nearly 20 million more—over the past decade. Most family caregivers feel unprepared when loved ones are dying and often wish they had known what to expect. Dying is framed as a natural, sacred process rather than a solely medical event; education, compassion, and support can make it peaceful and dignified. Doulagivers teach three distinct end-of-life phases; knowing each phase and how to support a loved one during it can convert fear into love and crisis into peace. Early actions include preserving patient control, asking what help is needed, and offering presence, forgiveness, and clear communication.

Read at Psychology Today