Suggestions to Help Family Caregivers Manage End-of-Life Anxiety

COVID-19 Update
About UsOur VisionOur MissionOur ValuesSenior LeadershipCare CompanionsASC Centenarian ClubAwards & DistinctionsCareersVolunteerContact UsCustomer ServiceMenuAbout UsOur VisionOur MissionOur ValuesSenior LeadershipCare CompanionsASC Centenarian ClubAwards & DistinctionsCareersVolunteerContact UsCustomer Service

CommunitiesLifestyle & Care OptionsAssisted LivingAssisted Living ApartmentsMemory Care ApartmentsRespite CareIndependent Living & WellnessGarden HomesIndependent Living ApartmentsNew Energy WellnessRehabilitationShort-Term RehabilitationOutpatient TherapyAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareMemory CareMemory Care ApartmentsMemory CareRespite CareSkilled NursingLong-Term CareRespite CareAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareHospice CareResourcesVolunteerShare to CareASC in the NewsThe ASC Centenarian ClubCARE CompanionsSenior Mental Health GuideBlogMenuCommunitiesLifestyle & Care OptionsAssisted LivingAssisted Living ApartmentsMemory Care ApartmentsRespite CareIndependent Living & WellnessGarden HomesIndependent Living ApartmentsNew Energy WellnessRehabilitationShort-Term RehabilitationOutpatient TherapyAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareMemory CareMemory Care ApartmentsMemory CareRespite CareSkilled NursingLong-Term CareRespite CareAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareHospice CareResourcesVolunteerShare to CareASC in the NewsThe ASC Centenarian ClubCARE CompanionsSenior Mental Health GuideBlog
HomeCommunitiesLifestyle & Care OptionsAssisted LivingAssisted Living ApartmentsMemory Care ApartmentsRespite CareIndependent Living & WellnessGarden HomesIndependent Living ApartmentsNew Energy WellnessRehabilitationShort-Term RehabilitationOutpatient TherapyAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareMemory CareMemory Care ApartmentsMemory CareRespite CareSkilled NursingLong-Term CareRespite CareHospice CareAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareResourcesShare to CareASC in the NewsThe ASC Centenarian ClubSenior Mental Health GuideCare CompanionsBlogVolunteerAbout UsCareersContact UsCustomer ServiceOur Response to COVID-19MenuHomeCommunitiesLifestyle & Care OptionsAssisted LivingAssisted Living ApartmentsMemory Care ApartmentsRespite CareIndependent Living & WellnessGarden HomesIndependent Living ApartmentsNew Energy WellnessRehabilitationShort-Term RehabilitationOutpatient TherapyAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareMemory CareMemory Care ApartmentsMemory CareRespite CareSkilled NursingLong-Term CareRespite CareHospice CareAdvanced Pulmonary & Ventilator CareResourcesShare to CareASC in the NewsThe ASC Centenarian ClubSenior Mental Health GuideCare CompanionsBlogVolunteerAbout UsCareersContact UsCustomer ServiceOur Response to COVID-19
Search


March 30, 2023Hospice
Anxiety is a common struggle at the end of life.As the caregiver for a loved one, you might feel helpless to know what to do about it.Psychiatrists say that death causes what is known as primordial anxiety or death anxiety.

Researchers believe its something we all have deep within us.Some believe that death anxiety is inversely proportional to life satisfaction.According to John Hinton in Death, Anxiety and Psychotherapy, When life had appeared satisfying, dying was less troublesome lesser satisfaction with past life went with a more troubled view of the illness and its outcome.Symptoms of End-of-Life AnxietySometimes the signs of anxiety are easy to spot, such as restlessness and agitation.A person with a life-limiting illness might tug at their clothes, wring their hands or be unable to sit or lie still.

Other symptoms that a caregiver might not equate with anxiety could include:Anger or aggressionLethargy or staring off into the distanceInability to focus or engage with loved onesPhysical discomfortContorted facial expression or grimaceBeing constantly in motion (e.g., moving from the couch to the chair to the bed)These are just a few of the common behaviors that might indicate someone who is nearing the end of their life is suffering from anxiety.Managing a Loved Ones End-of-Life AnxietyIf you suspect the symptoms you are witnessing in a loved one are caused by anxiety, a few suggestions for confirming and managing it might be:Ask about unmanaged pain: Depending on how well the patient is able to communicate, you might begin by asking if they are in pain.Its one of the leading causes of anxiety and restlessness in someone who is nearing the end of their life.Dont assume they arent experiencing pain and discomfort because they are taking medication.

Despite what many believe, pain can be successfully managed for most people.Monitor for shortness of breath: Someone with a life-limiting illness might be having trouble breathing.Its a frightening feeling and one of the top reasons for anxiety.Sit quietly next to your loved ones chair or bed and watch their breathing for a few minutes.

While their physician or hospice nurse may not be able to change the patients breathing, they can prescribe medications that help treat it.Offer to contact a chaplain or pastor: Part of the interdisciplinary approach of palliative care and hospice is to treat each individual holistically, focusing on mind, body and spirit.Spiritual care teams help patients find answers to questions like What was the meaning of my life? or What happens to me after I die? Having a chaplain or pastor visit can help calm the inner turmoil that many people with a life-limiting illness encounter.Encourage honest discussion: For some people, its the feeling of having unfinished business that might be behind their struggle.A parent might think they need to apologize for being absent from a childs life growing up.

Or a spouse might need to express gratitude and love for a partner who has always supported them.By gently urging them to share their emotions and regrets, you might help them gain peace.The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization has some great articles and guides on communicating with your loved one that you might find helpful.Explore alternative therapies: As a person grapples with their diagnosis, they may have a hard time understanding and expressing their feelings.

Alternative therapies can help with that.Music, massage and animal and art therapy are all options to consider.Learn whats likely to happen next: For some, their anxiety may be caused by not understanding their disease and fear of the unknown.If that turns out to be an issue, ask their physician or hospice provider for assistance.

They can share what happens if the disease follows its typical course.Knowing what to expect might make a difference in their anxiety.Hospice Services at American Senior CommunitiesWhile end-of-life can bring a roller coaster of emotions and fear for both patients and their families, working closely with a hospice team can help you manage the ups and downs.Hospice team members are experts at helping patients and their family members find ways to cope.

Visit Compassion and Dignity for Those With Terminal Illness to learn more about hospice care at American Senior Communities throughout Indiana or visit our website to find a location near you.

Subscribe to Our Blog
Your Name *Email *Subscribe

Recent Posts
6 Tips for Dealing With Insomnia in Older AdultsASC Communities Earn Deficiency-Free Rating for 2023Normal Aging or Dementia: How to Tell the Difference

Did you enjoy this article? Share it with your friends!
FacebookTwitterLinkedInWhatsAppPinterestEmailPrint
Disclaimer: The statements on this blog are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.The author does not in any way guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any message and will not be held responsible for the content of any message.Always consult your personal physician for specific medical advice.


COMPANY
About UsCareersCommunitiesContact UsCustomer Service
RESOURCES
NewsroomBlogCentenarian ClubVolunteerFAQ
LIFESTYLE & CARE OPTIONS
Assisted LivingIndependent LivingMemory CareRehabilitationSkilled Nursing
FIND A COMMUNITY NEAR YOU
10 mi20 mi30 mi
Keep In Touch:
FacebookLinkedinInstagramYoutubeTwitterPinterest
2023 American Senior Communities | All Rights Reserved
Non-Discrimination PolicyPrivacy PolicyNotice of Privacy PracticesVendorsCode of Conduct

Download Floor Plans & Pricing Information
Name *Email *Phone *Begin Download

Download Floor Plans & Pricing Information
Name *Email *Phone *Begin Download

Name *Email *Phone *How did you hear about us?Healthcare ProfessionalASCCare.comGoogleFacebookFriend, Family Member or SpouseDrive-ByOtherI am inquiring for:MyselfParent or GrandparentA FriendTour Preference *In-Person TourLive Guided Virtual TourChoose your preferred date and time.DateTimeContact Preference *Ok to contact me via email or phonePlease contact me via email onlyHow can we help?Submit

Click here for Career Opportunities.

Click here for Volunteer Opportunities.
When would you like to schedule your tour?DateTimeI have a question about Lifestyle & Care Options: *Independent LivingAssisted LivingMemory CareRehabilitationSkilled NursingI would like to schedule a tourWhat is your name? *What is your email address? *What is your phone number? *What is your zip code? *How did you hear about us? *Healthcare ProfessionalHealthcare ProfessionalASCCare.comGoogleFacebookFriend, Family Member or SpouseDrive-byEventOtherContact Preference *Ok to contact me via email or phonePlease contact me via email onlyMoving AssistancePlease send me information about SMART Solutions moving assistanceNo thank youHow can we help?Submit