1) Increased sleeping and at times, difficulty arousing your loved one. Sit with your loved one, hold his/her hand, speak naturally, telling what you would like him/her to hear. Hearing is the last of the five senses to leave, encourage others to also share what they want to say.

2) Usually, hunger and thirst dissipate. The only symptom of dehydration is a dry mouth. They are not starving, nature is at work assisting them to die in a more comfortable way. Dehydration actually brings relief from many distressing symptoms. Careful mouth care is important for the patients comfort.

3) Urine output decreases as the intake declines and the kidneys slow down.

4) Restlessness may occur as a result of decreased oxygen circulating.

5) Confusion about time, place and persons may occur.

6) Vision and hearing decrease slightly. However, always assume your loved one can HEAR what you say.

7) Breathing becomes irregular with periods of no breathing. Elevate the head.

8) Loss of control of the bladder and bowels is common.

9) Sounds like marbles in the chest may be heard. Reposition your loved one's head to the side and elevate the bed.

10) The arms and legs may be cool to the touch and/or darker in color. Keep your loved one warm, but do not use an electric blanket.