While death is a natural part of life, the process itself can be shrouded in mystery and fear. Hospice nurse Julie McFadden, based in Los Angeles, is dedicated to demystifying death and helping families navigate the end of life journey with understanding and compassion.
In a recent TikTok video, Julie addressed a common question she encounters in her work: ‘What does the dying process actually look like?’ She breaks down the process into four distinct stages, emphasizing that while individual experiences vary, these stages offer a general framework for understanding the natural progression of death.
Stage One: Slowing Down (Around Six Months Before Death)
This early stage is characterized by generalized symptoms like fatigue, lethargy, reduced appetite, decreased socialization, and changes in sleep patterns.
Stage Two: Sharp Decline in Strength (Three Months Before Death)
As death approaches, individuals become more debilitated, finding it difficult to leave the house, experiencing further decline in appetite and hydration, and spending more time asleep.
Stage Three: Transitioning (One Month Before Death)
This stage features a period of transition, often accompanied by a phenomenon known as ‘visioning.’ Patients may report seeing deceased loved ones, pets, or even relatives they haven’t seen in a while. Julie emphasizes that these visions are often comforting, occurring when the individual is alert and oriented.
Stage Four: Actively Dying (Final Stage)
This final stage is the most distinct and can be unsettling for loved ones unfamiliar with the process. The body begins to fully shut down, with the individual typically becoming unconscious, unresponsive, and requiring full care for basic needs. Changes in breathing patterns, including the ‘death rattle,’ a gurgling sound caused by fluid buildup in the airways, are common.
Julie emphasizes that these bodily changes are a normal part of the dying process and do not cause the individual any pain. She stresses the importance of education, urging families to gain a realistic understanding of death beyond the depictions often found in movies and television. This knowledge can provide comfort and clarity during a difficult time, helping loved ones understand what to expect and respond with compassion.
