The staff at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian knows that this particular period of time is one of the more difficult times you and your family will have to face. Realizing this, and anticipating the anxiety and fear you and your loved ones may experience, we have provided information on The Final Stages as well as Suggestions on Coping that can help you understand and respond to the symptoms indicative of impending death.

These symptoms are merely the natural progression of the body as it prepares for the final stage of this life. Not all of these symptoms will appear at the same time, and some may never appear. Use these guidelines with the understanding that the dying process is unique to each person. For some, this process could take months, for others, minutes. The entire staff of Hoag Hospital is here to answer questions, provide support and assist you in any way possible. You are encouraged to fully utilize the services that Hoag provides.