PROCEDURES FOR A PLANNED HOME DEATH

Dying persons may choose to die at home, surrounded by their loved ones. Individuals and their families, whose choice is a planned home death can expect that their wishes will be respected, and they will receive support and coordinated care.

Decision making for a planned home death should be a collaborative process giving primary consideration to what is in the best interest of the patient and family and involving the patient/family, family physician, nursing personnel and others as needed.

Discuss option of in-home death with your physician.

Make a Plan with your family physician so you are clear about what will happen and family/friends will know what to do at the time of death.

MAKE PREARRANGEMENTS WITH A FUNERAL HOME

Such arrangements will normally involve making plans with the Funeral Director for transportation of the deceased after death and the options available for final disposition.

How Will I Know Death Occured?

Even though death is expected, you may not be prepared for the actual moment it occurs. At the time of death:

  • There will be no response
  • There will be no breathing
  • There will be no pulse

PLANNED HOME DEATHS ARE ANTICIPATED EVENTS. WHEN THE DEATH OCCURS …

DO NOT CALL 911, THE POLICE, OR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.  When you are ready, call Beaverlodge Funeral Service and we will bring your loved one into our care. Each death is different. It can be a time of crisis or relative calm. It is not necessary to call immediately. Take time to call the relatives and friends you want to be with you.