Unhealthy, 87 year old mother declared in an instance that she felt like she was dying. I’m wondering if anyone has heard this from their elderly loved one. I’m not sure what this means or how she would know or feel like she was going to die. Thank you
EVERY SINGLE TIME I see my mom she begins our conversation with a listing of people who have died.
Maybe she felt sick, since you state that she is unhealthy. She's 87, that's way past the 'normal' age span. You know this, of course. It is a little unnerving to have a loved one speak like this, but for me? not when they're that old. And sick.
I believe in anticipatory grief, as some caregivers face the inevitable. It is coping tool and as I learned guilt is not necessary as anticipatory grief actually shows how much we care as we go thru anger, denial until we can reach acceptance.
So, perhaps your Mom has this feeling of leaving this world soon.
It is something you need to accept.
You have an 87 year old unhealthy mother, so it doesn't sound so odd to hear her say such a thing. My mother was "dying" for 6 decades but wound up living till she was 95. Every time she felt nauseous or dizzy, she insisted she was dying. Is your mother prone to histrionics or is this something new? I'd say get her to the doctor for a checkup if you feel worried, otherwise just reassure her she's okay.
Good luck to you and your mom!
Don't overthink this statement.
I suppose reassure her she is now ok. I suppose that her time will come.. when the higher powers decide it's time. Reassure her she is loved & will be remembered.