How to Live With a Terminally Ill Spouse

Living with a terminally ill spouse may present a variety of difficulties. Some spouses may have to cope with their loved one having problems such as pain. For others there may be tough questions to answer from kids. No two situations are alike. However there are some steps you can take cope with a terminally ill spouse.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Become educated on the disease your spouse has. Attend doctor's appointments with your spouse and learn what palliative treatments may improve the quality of life for your loved one. Ask about pain management and what medications may help.
   
   
2. Obtain hospice services. Your spouse's hospital social worker or doctor can provide information on hospices services in your area. Hospice can provide medical care in your home to the terminally ill. They can administer medications and may deliver medical equipment and the cost is usually covered by health insurance.
3. Encourage your spouse to participate in everyday activities as much as possible. Continue to spend time together as a family. Your loved one may need to limit his activities due to the illness but plan short activities that won't drain all the energy from your spouse. If you have children encourage interaction between your kids and spouse.
   
   
4. Ask your spouse if she wants to talk about her feelings. Everyone will handle a terminal illness differently. Some people may have a need to talk about their fears or express sadness. Other people may not want to share their feelings. There is no right way to cope with the situation.
   
   
5. Plan ahead. Although you may not want to talk about or plan for the death of your spouse knowing their wishes is helpful. Learn their wishes for memorial services. Be aware of wills and insurance policy information.
   
   
6. Expect your spouse to have some fear or sadness. Although not every spouse will experience every stage of grief some people may have feelings of angry, depression or become fearful. Factors such as the age of your spouse, the level of discomfort he or she is in, spiritual beliefs and his unique personality will help determine what his or her emotional state will be.
   
   
7. Enjoy time together. It may not be the best circumstances however take the opportunities you have and spend time together.