Your very ill mother is in your care. One day her beloved son dies. Mother has so many problems now, should you tell her about the son?
The answer, from Geri Hall — an Alzheimer speaker and author — is yes.
Quoted in caring.com, Hall says a fundamental truth is that a patient always has the right to know.
The way you tell a patient (or anyone) matters. Have the conversation in a quiet room, free from distractions. Be close. Take the patient's hand.
Tell the news simply and honestly. Use direct language: Mom, Steve has died.
Don't be afraid of tears or grieving. Help the process along by reminiscing about the person.
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Allyson Good curates senior living, health, and family content. She is formerly the Managing Editor of Active Life, a print newspaper published in 2016-2017 for seniors, choosing practical articles on health, money, safety, and everyday living for older readers. She is also an avid gardener and offers up Garden Hints and Tips on a regular basis.