Things to Do and Questions to Ask With a Dying Loved One

Facing the impending loss of someone close is incredibly difficult. But even in this tender time, there are opportunities to offer comfort, deepen your connection, and create lasting memories. Whether your loved one is nearing the end of life due to illness or age or has begun hospice care, combining simple, heartfelt activities with meaningful questions can foster peace, closure, and a profound sense of love.

This guide brings together purposeful things to do with someone who is dying, along with questions that spark reflection, gratitude, and intimacy in their final days.

Comforting Activities to Do with Someone Who Is Dying

Sharing quiet, intentional moments can bring emotional relief and ease anxiety for both the dying and their loved ones. Consider these gentle, engaging activities.

Revisit Special Places or Create the Feeling at Home

If your loved one is physically able, visiting a meaningful place, like a favorite park or beach, can bring joy and peace. If leaving home isn’t possible, you can recreate that experience with photos, sounds, or scents that bring the location to life.

Create a Memory Book or Scrapbook Together

Gather photos, letters, and mementos that reflect the highlights of your loved one’s life. Work together to assemble a memory book that tells their story. This can be a comforting way to celebrate accomplishments and relationships while preserving a tangible legacy.

Listen to Favorite Music or Watch Old Movies

Music and film evoke strong memories and emotions. Curate a playlist of favorite songs, or watch nostalgic movies or shows together. These familiar sounds and images can bring comfort and encourage storytelling.

Organize a Living Tribute or Celebration of Life

A “living funeral” or small tribute gathering allows loved ones to share appreciation, memories, and laughter while the person is still present to receive it. Hearing the impact they've made in others' lives can offer a deep sense of fulfillment and joy.

Engage in Spiritual or Mindful Practices

For those with religious or spiritual beliefs, activities such as prayer, guided meditation, or blessings can be meaningful and calming. Even simple breathing exercises or mindful silence can foster a sense of peace.

Questions to Ask a Dying Loved One

The end of life can be a time for deep reflection and important conversations. Asking thoughtful, open-ended questions can help your loved one feel heard, valued, and emotionally complete.

Questions About Life and Legacy

• What are you most proud of in your life?
• What lessons would you like to pass down?
• How would you like to be remembered?
• Is there a message you’d like to share with future generations?

Questions About Relationships and Regrets

• Are there any relationships you wish you had more time to heal?
• Who had the greatest impact on your life?
• Is there anyone you’d like to speak with again?
• What moments with loved ones stand out as your favorite?

Questions That Offer Comfort and Closure

• What brings you peace right now?
• Are there any fears you’d like to talk about?
• Is there anything you feel is unfinished?
• What has helped you feel most supported in recent days?

Lighthearted or Joyful Questions

• What was your favorite trip or vacation?
• What always made you laugh?
• What advice would you give for living a good life?

These questions are not meant to follow a script, but to spark genuine connection. Let your loved one guide the conversation, and offer them the space to speak freely — or simply enjoy the silence together if words aren’t needed.

Sharing Time at the End of Life

Even as death approaches, life is still being lived. These moments offer a chance to say thank you, I love you, and goodbye in meaningful and complete ways. Whether through a shared playlist, a meaningful conversation, or quiet companionship, your presence alone can be the greatest gift.

By blending comforting activities with thoughtful questions, you create space for reflection, release, and love — an enduring legacy that will carry on in your heart long after they are gone.

Get help and information on the steps to take after a loved one's death, how to plan a funeral, and memorial items that can provide comfort and support as a gift for someone else or yourself.

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