Writing the last chapter

Writing the last chapter

If your loved one has health challenges, they may be feeling a loss of control. Add to that a terminal diagnosis and a sense of doom may prevail.

But recognizing that life is coming to a close does not have to mean one waits glumly for the end. Following are some of the many ways hospice patients have chosen to take action and purposefully write their own "last chapter." Perhaps one of these might appeal to your loved one:

  • Write or record a life review. Somewhere between a memoir and "lessons learned," in a life review your relative can share pivotal moments and why they were important. Take dictation for typing later. Or go to StoryCorps.org for an app that helps families video-interview relatives.
  • Finish a cherished project. Perhaps it's a quilt that is not completed. Maybe it's a piece of furniture still unfinished in the shop. Or perhaps your loved one would enjoy a show-like exhibition of their artwork. Is there a way to publicly acknowledge their creativity?
  • Reconnect with estranged relatives or friends. Asking and bestowing forgiveness is a deeply meaningful activity. Old grudges usually melt away in the context of limited time.
  • Write cards to family members. One way to be present even after death is to write cards or letters to be given at particular life passages.
  • Have a celebration of life. Perhaps your relative is of the temperament to invite friends to gather and share stories before their passing rather than after.
  • Leave a legacy to help others. This doesn't have to be anything grand like a scholarship. It can be as simple as books for a library or sports gear to a young team. Perhaps donate organs for transplant.
  • Actively enjoy the simple pleasures. If ever there was a time to slow down and smell the roses, this is it. Many find deep contentment in the gift of each day.

Does your loved one have an incurable illness?

The final passage comes for everyone, but that doesn’t make it easy. As the San Diego County experts in family caregiving, we at Visionary Care Consultants have walked this journey with many families. Let us support you. Give us a call at 619-228-3584.

要查看或添加评论,请登录

Tina Buchanan的更多文章

  • Could it be a misdiagnosis?

    Could it be a misdiagnosis?

    Misdiagnosis happens more often than you think, and it occurs more frequently for older adults than for others. There…

  • Safe disposal of "sharps"

    Safe disposal of "sharps"

    Home management of a chronic illness often requires the use of needles or lances. You may need to give your family…

  • Engaging activities for dementia

    Engaging activities for dementia

    If your loved one has Alzheimer's or another dementia, you may wonder what you can do to keep their life lively and…

  • Heart attack warning signs

    Heart attack warning signs

    Heart attacks don't always look like what you'd expect. While you might imagine a person collapsing with intense chest…

    1 条评论
  • Fire escape planning for older adults

    Fire escape planning for older adults

    Creating a fire escape plan is smart for everyone but essential for older adults, who are at greater risk during a…

  • The obstacles of pride and privacy

    The obstacles of pride and privacy

    It's not easy to lose abilities and admit you need help. The reluctant elder in your life is more likely to ease into…

  • The obstacles of cost and control

    The obstacles of cost and control

    When a loved one obviously needs help at home but refuses to allow it, it's frustrating! Below are two common concerns,…

    5 条评论
  • Grief about pet loss

    Grief about pet loss

    The death of a pet can be heart wrenching for anyone, and older adults are no exception. Especially for those living…

  • Minimizing the financial impact of caregiving

    Minimizing the financial impact of caregiving

    Is caring for a loved one beginning to feel like a wallop to your wallet? AARP estimates that family caregivers spend…

  • Creating a dementia-friendly home

    Creating a dementia-friendly home

    Imagine living in a home you've known for years but that suddenly feels unfamiliar and confusing. This is the reality…

    1 条评论

社区洞察

其他会员也浏览了