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Caring for someone who is dying can be an upsetting and emotional time. We have information about what to expect at the end of life, and where to get support.
- What to Say When Visiting A Dying Person
- What Not to Say to Someone Who Is Dying
- What to Write to A Dying Friend, Family Member, Or Loved One
When it comes to comforting the dying, it's important to approach the situation with empathy and sensitivity. First and foremost, let the person know that they are not alone and that you are there to support them through this difficult time. Reassure them that it's okay to express their fears and concerns, and that you are there to listen and provi...
Something of equal importance is to recognize what not to say to someone who is dying. When racking your brain for ideas on what to say when visiting a dying person or interacting with someone who is dying, you may land on something that can trigger feelings of hurt. Try to avoid these common mistakes when you’re searching for what to say to someon...
There are many cases where you may need or prefer to write to someone who is dying in lieu of (or in addition to) visiting them in person. Writing gives you the opportunity to take time with your words and to carefully consider what exactly it is you’d like to say. It also gives the person you’re writing to the ability to reflect on your words for ...
Feb 20, 2024 · When someone tells you they’re going to die, or they’re talking about living with a terminal illness, be in the moment with them. Listen closely. Think about body language: eye contact, leaning forward, not crossing your arms, nodding, perhaps touching them. These things tell them you care. Try not to worry about not knowing what to say.
- Be present, even if you don’t know what to say. It can be hard to find the right words to say to a loved one with terminal cancer. But often, showing up with a listening ear is far more important than knowing exactly what to say.
- Allow yourself to feel complex emotions. A terminal cancer diagnosis can understandably bring a variety of emotions. These might include sadness, fear, anxiety, anger, shock, hopelessness and existential dread.
- Avoid statements that compare or minimize someone's cancer experience. Lee suggests avoiding excessive positivity or statements that start with ‘at least’ when discussing terminal cancer.
- Help without being asked. “Let me know if you need anything” can sound like a helpful way to support someone with cancer, but it can also create work. “It puts the burden back on the person with cancer to determine what they need or ask for help,” Lee says.
If you’ve ever visited a friend or loved one who is terminally ill, and not very responsive, you may wonder whether your visits are making a difference. This article offers some practical suggestions about how to prepare for a visit, as well as ideas to guide you during that time.
If you want to talk, you can: Call the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0808 808 00 00. Chat to our information and support specialists online. Visit our Online Community to talk to other people who have a family member or friend with cancer.
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What to Say to Someone With Cancer. If you’re struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer: 1. “I’m here for you.” Show up for your loved ones and remain by their side as they go through this process. And if you say these words, make sure you mean them, and support them through thick and thin. 2.
Get Information On Cancer. Cancer Research UK. Learn More About Cancer Today. Cancer Research UK. Together We Are Beating Cancer.
