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How to talk to terminally ill cancer patients. Try to think about how they impacted your life for the better. Speak in a calm quiet voice and avoid sudden noises or movements to reduce the chances of startling the patient. Talking About Death and Making End-of-Life Decisions.

Experts strongly encourage patients to complete advance directives which are documents stating a persons wishes for care. I met the patient a 57-year-old farmer with end-stage cancer. And dont talk about your friend with cancer who is running marathons or never missed a day of work.

Encourage your loved one to talk about their life. Make sure the right players are in the room. Body language can be telling even when someone is no longer able to verbally communicate pain.

This way you can keep the focus on your friend. Show support without words. Talking about memories can also help affirm that the persons life mattered and that they will be remembered.

Show those with cancer. Experts suggest that you dont say Its going to be OK Make it clear you are there for them try to create a semblance of normalcy ask how they are feeling today and be a good listener. Coping with loss.

If patients dont want information find out who they want us to communicate with. Just allow your friend to be who they are. No one can talk when they are in pain or uncomfortable.