What to do when someone dies at home and their death is expected?

Have you ever wondered what you should do when someone you love dies and their death is expected? It is important to note that these are the steps should someone be receiving care from their doctor and their death is not unexpected.

The first thing to do is nothing. Be with your person.
Put on the kettle and spend some time with them. There is no rush to do the next steps.
This is such a sacred time and once you start the process, it can be hard to get that sacred time back.

Notify the doctor to have your loved one’s death certified. This does not have to happen immediately but they are required to come out and certify the death.

If they were under the Palliative Care, the Palliative Care team will guide you through the process.

If their death is expected, you do not need to call an ambulance.

If you wish your loved one’s body can stay at home for a short time especially if you would like friends and relatives to come and say their goodbyes.

And when you’re ready contact the Funeral Director who will take your loved one’s body and guide you through the next steps for funeral arrangements.