Advice For Dealing With The Death of a Client or Patient

It is always hard as a professional to lose a client because of death. While death is a fact of life, part of the life cycle; remember that to be born, one must die, and it is never easy.

I work with seniors and older/adults and this is something that I face all the time as do many in the helping professions who work with seniors, patients who have chronic health conditions or diseases, and patients who are palliative or in hospice.

We know the reality. We know this is part of our professional life. But it is never easy.

I just found out that one on my clients died on Friday and the funeral is tomorrow.  I will attend the funeral, not because I have to, but because I want to.

As much as possible I make a point to attend the funerals of my clients or one of their family members. I do it out of respect for the deceased and to offer support.

This is a personal decision. Also, if possible, I will visit a client who is in hospital, in rehabilitation, or at home recovering if my schedule allows this. Otherwise I call and send a card to let them know I am thinking of them and wishing them a speedy recovery.

I know I would appreciate and want this if it was the reverse.

Treat others as you want to be treated…… it’s a good motto.