As your elderly loved one awaits a discharge from the hospital, you are wondering what kind of news the doctors will deliver when they finally talk to you about end-of-life planning. It’s been a few years since the doctors first announced your loved one’s terminal illness; you have been by your loved one’s side every step of the way. In the last month or so, the prognosis hasn’t looked very good, but that’s no reason you shouldn’t hold on to hope. Here are a few ways to show that you care:
Serve your elderly loved one.
If it’s a friend or neighbor, stop by their house and drop off an inspirational gift. Write the words she needs to hear so that she knows you care. If she can’t muster enough energy to read it, say the words out loud and place the card by her bedside so it can be a reminder of your love when you leave the house. You can also send a 24-hour companion to assist your loved one with grocery shopping, errands, and prescription pick-ups.
Offer a ride somewhere.
Does your elderly loved one get out much? Perhaps you’re afraid to take him out because he might be too tired. You never know until you ask. Offer a ride to a park or a beach where your elderly loved one will enjoy the outdoors. Nature has healing power. If a neighbor’s son or daughter is away at work, offer to take your friend to a medical appointment for a check-up or follow-up treatment. Don’t wait until the person has to ask.
Be their voice.
Patients with cancer or terminal illness often do not have the energy to communicate with other people. Maybe they don’t have the energy to type or write anymore, but connection with other humans is one of the most important keys to beating cancer. Volunteer yourself to be the messenger for your loved one. What does he or she want to communicate to friends, family, and community members?
Keep the love coming!
If you live close by or just a few hours away, make it a point to visit your loved one as often as you can. If you live in another state, send flowers and cards as much as possible, and encourage others to do the same! The constant flow of encouragement will fill your loved one’s heart with hope and faith because they know that they are not forgotten. When they know they’re loved, they have the courage to fight on and hang on to their will to live.
