Hospice Nurse Reveals Insights on Comforting Visions Before Death

A hospice nurse from California, Julie McFadden, has shared her experiences regarding the comforting visions that many individuals encounter in the weeks leading up to death. In her role as an end-of-life nurse and bestselling author, McFadden, known on TikTok as “Hospice Nurse Julie,” aims to educate her audience about the dying process. Her insights resonate with a growing audience of 1.7 million followers.

In a recent video, McFadden outlined two key observations about what people often experience before they pass away. She emphasized the biological aspects of dying, stating, “The body is built to die.” According to her, the body possesses mechanisms that ease the dying process, such as turning off hunger and thirst signals. This means that in the final stages of life, individuals may not feel hungry or thirsty, alleviating the distress often associated with these sensations.

McFadden explained that as death approaches, the body increases calcium levels, leading to increased fatigue. “You’re gonna sleep a lot, not eat, and drink, and it’s not gonna bother you much,” she noted. This natural process may even induce ketosis, which releases endorphins that can provide comfort and pain relief.

Unexplained Comfort from the Past

The second observation McFadden shared is more mysterious yet frequently reported. She stated, “Around a few weeks before death, someone will start seeing dead relatives, dead loved ones, old pets that have died.” These encounters often bring comfort to the dying, offering messages of reassurance from the past. McFadden encourages caregivers to prepare for such experiences, helping them understand that these visions are common and not a cause for concern.

In parallel, Carolyn Quach-Huynh, a nurse with Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care, has also discussed similar phenomena. She explained that patients may not only see deceased loved ones but might also perceive unfamiliar spirits visiting them. “Sometimes it is many people. They’ll say the room is crowded,” Quach-Huynh remarked. These experiences can manifest in various forms, including dreams and familiar scents, adding a layer of comfort during an often distressing time.

The NHS acknowledges the complexity of the dying process, noting that restlessness and confusion are common in the final days. Symptoms such as these can arise due to a variety of factors, including physical discomfort or the effects of illness. The NHS states that “sometimes confusion or delirium is part of the illness,” which can lead to altered perceptions of reality.

For caregivers concerned about a loved one who appears restless or confused, support and resources are available. The NHS website offers guidance for those seeking assistance during this challenging time.

In sharing her knowledge, McFadden aims to demystify death, highlighting the potential for comfort in the final stages of life. Her insights provide invaluable support not only for those facing the end of life but also for their loved ones navigating this profound journey.