TRANSITIONING Into Next Life

At Care Beyond Care we do not use the word “dying”. The law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed - only converted from one form of energy to another.

To see a loved one transitioning can often be a disconsolate time for families as their love one’s spirit/consciousness is moving from the physical to non-physical. Whatever spiritual background that you come from we would hope to be that bridge that makes that journey more comfortable and give that quality of life that most families want.

Each person's journey is unique. Some may experience a very gradual decline, while others could transition quickly.

As this process unfolds, a role we advise all our clients families is to be present, to comfort and reassure your loved one with soothing words and actions that help them maintain their comfort and dignity.

Below we have a brief layout of what you can expect during this time.

Stages of Transition

  • 30 - 90 Days From transistion

    You may notice your loved one sleeping more. The desire for eating and drinking liquids is reducing and you could notice a change in their normal social habits.

  • 7 - 14 days from transistion

    As tranistion is approaching this stage, sleeping will typically increase even more. You may even notice that your loved one is not leaving their bed & our caretakers are repositioning them more.

    The sleeping patterns could be changing from their normal schedule & very little appetite & desire for liquids is at this stage. For that reason their stool and urine output will also be decreasing.

    Clients may experience pain, changes in blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate. As a result body temperature will have its ups and downs that may leave their skin cool, warm, moist, or pale.

    You may notice congested breathing from the buildup in the back of their throat, confusion, or the appearance of being in a daze during this stage.

  • Days to Hours from transitioning

    During this stage your loved one may have no desire for food or liquids. This will also further change their bowel movements and liquid output.

    You may also see facial expressions of pain. Their eyes may begin tearing or glazing over, of which we will put a warm towel or approved eye drops to assist with discomfort.

    Vital signs are showing irregular readings or hard to feel or hear, which will effect body temperature causing it to drop.

  • Finial Hours Before Transistion

    The Skin on their knees, feet, and hands chows color changes. You may notice breathing is interrupted by gasping and slows until it stops entirely.

  • Hospice Care

    By definition “Hospice care is a type of health care that focuses on the palliation of a terminally ill client’s pain and symptoms and attending to their emotional and spiritual needs at the end of life. Hospice care prioritizes comfort and quality of life by reducing pain and suffering.” We advise our clients to look for this care prior to & during these stages as this can be a resource in providing the comfort your loved one may need during these stages. All hospice care companies are all different so we suggest shopping around & find which one best suits the type of care you want. We are here for and with you during this process and are honored to help when & where we can.