What Does Transitioning to Death Mean?

Transitioning to death refers to the initial phase when your loved one’s health begins to decline and shift into active dying. Although the length of time associated with the dying process can vary for everyone, most individuals will die within a matter of days or hours once they have transitioned into active dying. During this time, your loved one’s body will change as certain functions and organs begin to shut down. These changes can manifest in different ways, but some of the most common symptoms observed in transitioning to death include: 

• Increased confusion or restlessness 
• Decreased appetite and thirst
• Increased drowsiness 
• Difficulty swallowing 
• Breathing changes 
• Bladder and bowel changes 
• Changes in skin color 
• Changes in temperature
• Increased agitation 
• Communicating with deceased loved ones or having visions 
• Swollen ankles or feet 
• Increased pain or distress 
• Secretion build-up in mouth or throat 
• Audible “rattling” sound from throat 

While physical changes and symptoms are often primary indicators that someone is transitioning to death, there are other indicators as well. People who are dying often experience emotional, mental, and spiritual changes. Depending on the level of awareness that your loved one can maintain during this phase, they may experience emotions such as anxiety, fear, peace, or acceptance. Some individuals express feeling more deeply connected to a higher power or divinity, while others share visions of different places and people who previously died. It is common for most people to reflect on the personal significance and meaning of their lives and the experiences they have had.

It is important to understand that factors such as an individual’s overall health, the potential cause of their death, and their preferences and beliefs can all influence the experience of transitioning to death. Since transitioning can range from hours to days, it is crucial to have consistent care and support throughout the process to ensure your loved one is as comfortable as possible. While transitioning to death is a deeply personal and meaningful period to share with your loved one, it is often very challenging to observe. As such, working together closely with a care team or other healthcare professionals as well as family members and loved ones can ensure that you maintain a solid support system while emphasizing a peaceful transition for your loved one. 

Sources

“Hospice Care: Symptoms of Approaching Death.” University of Rochester Medical Center. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=34&contentid=23507-1 

“Signs of Approaching Death.” Hospice Foundation of America. https://hospicefoundation.org/Hospice-Care/Signs-of-Approaching-Death 

“What is Transitioning in Hospice?” Guaranteed Hospice. https://www.guaranteedhospice.com/blog/what-is-transitioning-in-hospice