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We’ve been told that my mother only has weeks left to live. What should we expect during the dying process?

Last Updated: January 24, 2008

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People who are close to death might signal that the end is near in a variety of ways. The dying process evolves over time with some physical signs, including breathing changes, disorientation, loss of bowel and bladder control, and gurgling or rattling sounds, among others. People who are close to death might ramble or say things that seem confused or jumbled. Sometimes dying people talk about specific destinations, the need to prepare for travel, or reconciling with a loved one. For more information on grief and loss, visit: http://www.extension.org/pages/Loss_and_Grief.

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