The Moments After a Death

The moments after a death

When an expected death occurs after a long illness, it can still be a surprise and seem surreal. It’s common to have emotional reactions when someone dies, even if, as family and/or a caregiver, you were expecting the death and thought you were prepared.

Common approaches to death and care after death

• After a Death: Get Support When Someone Dies (Government of B.C.)

• Rituals for Patients and Families (Canadian Virtual Hospice)

• Care of the Body After Death (Canadian Virtual Hospice)

• Funeral Costs (Government of B.C.)

• Index of Funeral and Cremation Services in British Columbia (Canadian Funerals)

Alternative approaches to death and care after death

• Planning a Home Funeral (Canadian Virtual Hospice)

• Canadian Integrative Network for Death Education and Alternatives (CINDEA) provides information and resources about alternative ideas regarding the time before, during and after a death occurs. Topics such as advance care planning, funeral homes and “green” burial options are discussed.

Grief & bereavement

Grieving and grief support for the family and caregivers following death is an essential part of care for the dying. Check for support groups in your area provided through hospice societies, churches, and other network groups and societies.

• Grief Work (Canadian Virtual Hospice)
• Coping with Grief (HealthLinkBC)
• Grief and Grieving: Treatment Overview (HealthLinkBC)
• Grief in Times of Celebration: The Empty Spot (Canadian Virtual Hospice)
• British Columbia Bereavement Help Line - 1-877-779-2223 (free, confidential, anonymous support)