Food is highly essential for the proper functioning of the body; it gives us energy. However, when death approaches, the body does not require the energy derived from any more. And since food sustains the body, a dying person’s needs change, so does their eating habit.
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Food and dying
In the weeks leading up to death, the body begins to gradually shut down, meaning it does not function as it normally would, an article on Home Care Pulse states. Around this time, the sick or elderly person who is nearing the end of their life may stop taking food and liquids. According to experts at the end-of-life facility, forcing them to eat may not be helpful.
If at this time you begin forcing food with TPN or feeding tubes/gastrostomy you will generally end up with more complications than benefit—because the body doesn’t want the food. Giving IV fluids at this point only increases congestion in the lungs, fluid builds up in the body (the kidneys are not working properly now), creating discomfort.
A few days before death, your loved one may stop eating or drinking entirely.
What can you do?
As hard as it is to see your loved one in that state, the NHS says the loss of appetite and inability to consume fluids are normal parts of the dying process.
If they stop drinking, their mouth may look dry, but this does not always mean they are dehydrated. It is normal for all dying people eventually to stop eating and drinking.
If the person is conscious, you should be let them eat when they tell you they’re hungry. Offer them ice chips, ice pops, or ice cubes to keep them hydrated. Soak a wash cloth with cool water and use it to pat their lips. When they stop drinking altogether, keep the delicate skin around their lips moisturized with a lip balm, according to Healthline.
Sources used:
NHS Inform: Body changes at the end of life
Home Care Pulse: Nutrition 101: How Eating Habits Change at the End-of-Life
Healthline: 11 Signs of Death and Ways to Help Your Loved Ones
