Practical Caregiving Tips for Family Members

Caring for someone at end of life is profoundly meaningful—and challenging. This guide provides hands-on, practical strategies.

Setting Up the Caregiving Space

The Bedroom/Care Room

Comfortable bed with good support

Comfortable temperature

Good lighting for tasks, soft lighting for comfort

Clear pathways

Call button/bell within reach

Minimal clutter

Safety

Nightlight for safety

Remove fall hazards

Ensure accessibility

Keep medications organized

Keep supplies within reach

Daily Care Routines

Morning Routine

Gentle awakening

Mouth care (critical for comfort)

Gentle face wash if bed-bound

Hair brushing if they enjoy

Clean clothes/gown

Morning medications

Breakfast if interested

Mouth Care

Critical for comfort:

Brush teeth gently

Moisturize lips

Swab mouth with moist cloth

Watch for infection signs

Hygiene and Bathing

Use warm water, have safety equipment, maintain privacy and dignity, don't rush.

Nutrition and Hydration

Appetite naturally decreases at end of life—this is normal.

Offer small portions

Focus on favorite foods

Don't force eating

Sips of water appreciated

Offer, don't insist

Medication Administration

Understand what each medication does

Know side effects

Double-check doses

Record when given

Store safely

Positioning and Comfort

Frequent position changes:

Prevent pressure wounds

Ease breathing

Improve comfort

Reduce pain

Improve circulation

Managing Common Symptoms

Pain

Recognize through facial expressions, body tension, restlessness. Respond with medication, positioning, and comfort measures.

Nausea

May relate to medications, bowel issues, or anxiety. Help with anti-nausea medication, ginger tea, fresh air, small meals.

Constipation

Prevention is key: stool softeners, laxatives, fluids, movement if able.

Difficulty Breathing

Repositioning, cool air, anxiety medication, morphine if prescribed, stay calm.

End-of-Life Signs

Changes in breathing, skin cooling/mottling, decreased blinking, loss of responsiveness. These are normal and don't mean suffering unless accompanied by grimacing/agitation.

Final Reminders

You're doing something extraordinary. Imperfection is okay. Your presence matters more than technique. Ask questions. You're doing it right by being there.