Near-Death Awareness - Does Anyone Die Alone?

Let me explain why I don’t think anyone truly dies alone.

Although every person is unique and each dying experience is different, there are typical phases the body goes through at the end. If my client is dying an expected death, I can usually tell when the active dying phase begins and will notify loved ones.

Sometimes a death surprises me, by happening suddenly or taking longer than expected. But most experienced death doulas and hospice nurses, at the very least, recognize familiar signs.

Many families, loved ones, and care teams organize a vigil of sorts. Their goal is to make sure their person doesn’t die alone. That makes sense. If the dying person has a moment of clarity or consciously returns to the room, it's nice for them to see a face they recognize.

However, even when loved ones fill each shift, many times when the person keeping watch goes to make a quick phone call or take a quick shower, that’s when their loved one slips away.

This common occurrence leads to feelings of guilt and remorse.

No One Should Die Alone

Keeping vigil with …