Dignity in the final Hours

Sometimes, small things make a big difference, especially in sterile environments, like hospital rooms far removed from the comfort and safety of home.

Sometimes we don’t have a choice: no matter what our wish for dying is, we could end up hospitalized because of an emergency or unexpected decline in our health condition. In these cases, however, there are still things that the dying person’s relatives can do to help the dying person realize a more dignified passing.

Many family members of terminally ill patients believe that dying in the hospital would be better than at home. They believe that doctors and nurses can control pain much better with IVs and around-the-clock nursing care. They think it would be easier on their family to let someone else handle the caregiving during this time. However, if more people knew about the possible resources available, they might choose differently. 

What does Dignity in the final moment's mean to you?

I interviewed people to “The Art of Dying” book, and they where all at their final stages of life. Here are some of their answers:

“To me it means to not have to suffer and be allowed to die on my terms, and with peace”.                       

Christina 

“To die comfortably and with dignity on my terms, without pain.” 

 Gitte

“Not suffering, leaving this world with dignity and having my loved ones with me” 

Michael    

“That I have the right to choose the best pathway towards a peaceful and pain-free death.” 

Suzanne                                         

“Death with Dignity means that I am in control of my future and my end of life decision.” 

Jim

“To die at home, without pain, someone to hold my hand, surrounded by my children and my wife”

George

Assignment

What does Dignity in the final moment's mean to you? and to your loved one?