What to say when someone is dying; tips from a master in her field

1. ACT NORMALLY – there is no need to lower your voice or be sad all the time.
2. BE THERE – here is huge value in just spending time with them, letting them laugh and allowing them too, to be their normal selves
3. NOT TRYING TO LEAD CONVERSATIONS – It is much safer to ask questions that enable the person who is dying to take the lead
4. DO NOT PUSH YOUR IDEAS OR AGENDAS ON THEM – “You can easily say things that aren’t appropriate and sometimes people don’t realise they’re doing it.”

Read more about palliative care nurse practitioner Nikki Johnston’s experience and encounters with her patients here. Check out more of her insights!

From Palliative Matters