Relationships and social interactions are of utmost importance in a person’s life, particularly during the end of it. According to Patrice Harris, “the end of life is as much about relationships and connections with family, friends, caregivers and community as it is about medical care” (Harris). Indeed, people at the end of their lives may feel more isolated than ever before; due to physical limitations or an inability to participate in activities they once enjoyed. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression which can be difficult for them -and those close to them-to cope with. Having meaningful relationships during this time helps individuals find meaning in their situation, giving them a sense of purpose even if they cannot partake in many activities normally associated with living.
Having meaningful relationships throughout one’s life has been shown to have positive effects that reach far beyond providing comfort at the end—it can actually improve medical outcomes (Sethi et al., 2016). For example, numerous studies have demonstrated that social support networks help protect against heart disease through improved psychological health factors like decreased stress levels (Ragland et al., 2017). Furthermore, social contacts also contribute positively towards mental well-being by reducing anxiety and depression symptoms while increasing feelings of hope -which are beneficial all throughout life but are especially important during times when facing mortality (Werner & Maloney 2012). Additionally , having a strong support system has been linked with better adherence rates for healthcare regimens such as taking prescribed medications on time (Fernández-Robles et al., 2014 ).
Analyze the importance of relationships and social interactions as an individual nears end of life.
The way individual’s approach death largely depends on how comfortable they feel discussing their own mortality with those closest around them; often resulting in frank conversations about wishes regarding funeral arrangements or discussions about what should happen after death occurs sets expectations for those left behind(Morris & Lamontagne 2018). These conversations give individuals opportunities to process their emotions surrounding leaving loved ones behind which allows them peace knowing specific wishes will be carried out upon passing away while providing others guidance on how best handle grief following loss . In addition it allows individuals near death an opportunity reflect on how they want others remember them and encourages reminiscing over happy memories shared together which offers solace and comfort within dying days.
In conclusion , relationship and social interactions play an integral role throughout our lives but become even more essential as we move closer towards demise . It’s crucial people do not feel aloney or isolated during this challenging time so being surrounded by loving relatives , friends or caregivers can provide much needed emotional relief along journey towards death bed. Creating lasting memories alongside people dear us should always remain priority no matter stage our lives whether young middle aged old since these bonds build foundation strong enough never break regardless circumstances .