6 Tips To Help A Dying Parent
As we grow older, so do our parents and loved ones. When they are nearing the end of this life, it can be stressful for them and us. Now is the time to remember, comfort and forgive.
My Mother died last year and my Father is in his last days. Through this experience I’ve found a few things that will ease their transition to the afterlife.
#1. Focus your efforts on listening to what they want. Really listen to them and they’ll tell you how they want their last days to be. Focus on making them comfortable physically and emotionally.
#2. Mend the hurts and misunderstandings that have come from both sides through-out your lives. Take the high road and smooth things out.
#3. Thank them for all they’ve done for you since you were born. Tell them how grateful you are that they’re your Mom or Dad. Thank them for all they’ve taught you about life and relationships and making a good life. Ask them to forgive you, tell them you forgive them. Tell them they’ve made a positive impact on you and your family and all those they’ve interacted with. Put them at ease, that their life was important.
#4. Memories are important. Sit and talk with them and remember specific times and events and tell them how they made a difference in your life. Take note, record their words, go through old photos. Talk about their legacy and how they’ll be remembered. This is the time to embelish a little if you have to and make them feel loved and wanted. They need to know they’ll be missed.
#5. Estate. Make sure their estate is in order. They need an executor or trustee with access to all financial accounts. Put these is order now for face the courts and red tape by yourself after they’re gone. It’s much easier now. Decide who will get the favorite chair and dining room table, etc. Find out what their wishes are.
#6. Say Goodbye. At some point in time, you’ll know when, it’s important for you to say goodbye. Tell them they are loved and appreciated and will be missed.
These are the most important things to do and say before your loved one passes on. It will mean a lot to both of you when you share your love with them.
Thanks for stopping by, John