The Social Context of Death and Dying

Vocabulary and key concept flashcards covering guidelines and supportive approaches for communicating with individuals who are grieving or nearing the end of life.

The Social Context of Death and Dying

The consideration of how to best communicate about death and loss while avoiding platitudes and euphemisms.

Platitudes and euphemisms

Trite phrases or indirect substitutions that should be avoided when discussing death and loss.

Communication with someone grieving

Expressing sorrow for their loss, confirming your availability, asking what you can do or who you can contact for them, and asking if they want to talk about the deceased.

Helping someone grieving

Being present and aiming to be supportive in whatever way the grieving individual needs.

Communication with someone who is dying

Following the dying person's lead, acknowledging that the end is near, forgiving and asking for forgiveness, reminiscing, and saying goodbye.

Treating a dying person normally

Interacting with kindness and normalcy, including smiling and finding joy and humor whenever possible.