Medical Concerns

Caregiving tips
From bathing to helping ease shortness of breath, you can learn simple ways to address your loved one’s personal needs.

Nutrition and pain
Very few families have experience caring for a seriously ill relative. It can be daunting at first. You may be concerned that your loved one is not eating enough. Or you may be worried about managing pain.

Talking with the doctor
Sometimes you are called upon to participate in treatment decisions. This task can be made easier with simple preparations before the appointment. Talk to your loved one about his or her goals for treatment. Wishes for quality of life. With these goals and wishes in mind, you can develop questions to ask the doctor.

The last few days
Concern about the last few days is often a source of anxiety. To help you, we provide a description of what happens when someone is “actively dying.” Knowing what to expect can go a long way toward easing your mind.