Visiting a Parent at End of Life
Visiting a parent in the hospital can be challenging on its own, but when children are navigating a final visit due to an end-of-life situation, it will be unlike any other visit.
Visiting a parent in the hospital can be challenging on its own, but when children are navigating a final visit due to an end-of-life situation, it will be unlike any other visit. Parents often struggle with deciding if a child should be allowed to see their parent in such a state. What we know about children is that when they are provided with a choice, included in honest and age-appropriate ways, they value the experience and are able to cope better (in the short and long term). The following information reviews considerations for including children in these situations, especially in regard to preparation and supportive strategies.