The week before a person dies is called “actively dying.” During this time, patients will exhibit various symptoms that make it clear that their body is shutting down and that death is near. For example, their appetite decreases, they sleep more, and they exhibit delirium due to a buildup of fluids. Fluid buildup also causes swelling of the arms and legs, which may cause additional discomfort or pain.
Body temperature will decrease, though the body itself may feel cool to the touch. Most patients’ heart rates become irregular, and sometimes it can be difficult to detect a heartbeat. Blood pressure drops as well, which can cause disorientation or excess sweating. Monitoring a patient’s vitals is crucial to any illness, especially a terminal one. When vitals begin to change dramatically, death is close. Family members should remember that hearing is the final sense to go despite these changes. So stay close to your loved ones and speak to them in a calm, soothing voice so that they can feel you nearby as they pass away.