Your loved one is dying. There are seemingly a million things to address or say, and you want to cherish every last moment together. Still, you’re at a loss for words. Facing death is difficult, and conversations about it do not come easily. This CareNote examines how to look that horse on the dining room table straight in the eye, the one everyone knows is there but struggles to ignore. Gently speaking about it may lead to deep or trivial conversation, confusion, struggle, silence, or just plain silliness. Whatever the case may be, what is most important is that you are sharing what is truly important, your loving presence.

By Susan Phillips