A dying person is still very much alive.
Because of our own fear of death, we often unwittingly isolate the dying person by treating him or her differently. We also anticipate conversations with the dying person as difficult and painful, and can inadvertently make them just that. Remembering a few guiding principles will help you be in the presence of death and talk with a dying person with greater ease and comfort.
When Someone Is Dying: What Can I Say? How Can I Help? is meant to give reassurance and guidance to those who are preparing to visit a dying person and are unsure what to say. Author Alice Estey offers things to keep in mind before opening the door and suggestions to ease your visit.
About the author
Alice Estey, BSW, MA is a mediator and conflict management specialist in private practice since 1994 and a long-term faculty member in Woodbury Institute’s nationally recognized master’s program in mediation. Her particular interest is in facilitation of end-of-life shared decision-making and her booklet When Someone is Dying, What Can I Say? How Can I Help? has been widely distributed in hospitals and hospices.
If you’re interested in speaking with Alice about her services or acquiring print copies of her booklet for use in your facility or with your services, her contact information is contained in the booklet.