How to Comfort the Dying

Author Info

Last Updated: August 1, 2025

Everyone should live life to the fullest. This means even a dying person should be given the highest quality of life for every living moment.

Steps

Download Article

Do not let a person die alone. Let them experience love and friendship as they pass. If the person is unresponsive, hold their hand and talk to them.
Contract a hospice nurse to provide pain management. Provide a special mattress to alleviate pressure. Offer water, but do not force hydration. If the person is incontinent, keep them clean and dry.

Advertisement
The transition out of this life can be a source of anxiety or fear. Offer a conversation of faith or peace.^{[1]
X
Expert Source

Michaela Hudson
Grief Counselor

Expert Interview}
It may seem humiliating to a person when they are incontinent or totally dependent on others for activities of daily living. Tell the person how you admire and respect them.
Talk about times and occasions in life that were important to the dying person. Talk about humorous incidents. Talk about activities and hobbies that have been rewarding. Talk to family members about what they would consider the significant events of their loved one's life.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Michaela Hudson
Grief Counselor

Expert Interview}
Don't do all the talking. Don't be afraid to sit in silence.
Bring in meals. Offer time for respite. Promise to be available during bereavement.^{[3]
X
Expert Source

Michaela Hudson
Grief Counselor

Expert Interview}
Back off of any intervention that makes the dying person uncomfortable. Be thoughtful and considerate.

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

My husband is dying at home, and all I seem to be able to do is cry. Any suggestions?

Community Answer

Instead of focusing on the fact he is passing away, focus on making his last days at home the best days of his life. This might help him feel better about the situation, while helping you feel as if you have performed a good deed for your husband. For example, make his favorite dinners, take him to do things he always wanted to do but never got the chance. This can help both of you through this.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 24
Question

Won't bringing back memories just make them feel scared and unprepared to pass?

Community Answer

No, it will bring them peace to remember the happy times they had on earth. Focus on the good things that person did for others and the difference they made during their life.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 37
Question

How can I help the spouse of someone who is dying?

Community Answer

Just be there for support. You cannot make it easier, nor can you stop the pain, anger and sadness that will come. Just be there.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 14

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Initiate hospice services sooner rather than later. Do not wait until the person is actively dying. Admit the person as soon as they are eligible for hospice.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Most hospice organizations will provide a nurse, health aid, social worker, chaplain and volunteer services to a terminally ill person.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Remember, every one of us will face the experience of dying.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0