Terrifying indicators an individual is about to die and how you can spot them – urge for food loss to rest room use

It’s important to be prepared for the end, no matter how scary it may be. Experts like Julie McFadden want to ‘alleviate the fear and stigma around death’ by knowing what exactly can go down

Ever wondered what the signs are that your time is up?

Hospice nurse Julie McFadden has revealed that there are usually several indicators that a person is nearing the end of their life. She explained that the body goes through four stages before passing away and certain signs that death is near usually occur around the six month mark for those who die a natural death.

It’s a daunting thought, but experts like Julie aim to ‘alleviate the fear and stigma around death’ by educating people about what to expect. One sign is a lack of appetite.

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As a person becomes less active towards the end, their body doesn’t need as much energy. This could lead them to eat or drink less than usual, or even stop eating altogether, which can happen one to two months before passing away, according to VITAS Healthcare.

Medical News Today suggests keeping the person’s lips moist with balm to ensure they’re comfortable in their final days or hours. Another sign is needing more sleep.

A person may spend less time awake in the time before they die, and it is advised to let them sleep while ensuring they’re comfortable, the publication says. While the other senses diminish overtime, you can still hear what people are saying and the environment around you before dying, so VITAS also recommends respecting the person’s solitude, while communicating with them openly.

A change in toilet habits can occur when somebody is eating and drinking less – which is common in a person’s final days – their bowel movements may reduce and become less frequent. A person can also lose control of their bowel movements, and it is advised to seek medical help if this is the case.

Weakening muscles may become apparent in a person’s final hours, which means they may be unable to carry out simple tasks or do things for themselves, such as getting out of bed or going to the toilet.

In a person’s final days or moments, their vital signs may significantly change. This includes; blood pressure dropping, breathing changes, faster or more irregular heartbeat, difficulty detecting a pulse.

Circulations reduces in the days before a person passes away, as that blood is focused on their internal organs. This leads to decreased blood flow in the hands, feet or legs.

Cold, pale or mottled skin due to reduced circulation is a symptom not to be ignored. Increased sleeping could also indicate that someone is nearing the end of their life.

Changes in breathing patterns, including speed and noises, are also signs to look out for. Pain levels may increase as death approaches, and it’s crucial to be prepared for this.

A person nearing death may become less sociable and more withdrawn, but it’s important not to take this personally. Confusion is another common symptom.

In the final stages, an individual may experience confusion and lose track of their surroundings. However, it’s crucial to continue communicating with them, explaining ongoing events and introducing each visitor.

Hallucinations or distorted visions are not uncommon in a person’s last moments. As Katherine House Hospice points out, some individuals nearing death may converse with or see things that aren’t there.

While this can be distressing to witness, it’s important not to exacerbate the person’s distress. Instead, gently remind them of their surroundings and who is present, maintaining a calm demeanour.

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