Changes in breathing patterns may also occur. Some people experience periods of rapid breathing followed by pauses, a pattern sometimes referred to as Cheyne-Stokes respiration. Breathing may become shallow or irregular, especially during the final days or hours of life. Although these changes can be distressing to witness, they are often a natural part of the body's transition.
Mental and emotional changes are also common. A person nearing the end of life may become confused, disoriented, or less responsive. They may have difficulty recognizing familiar people or places. In some cases, individuals may speak about seeing deceased relatives or describe experiences that seem unusual to others. Healthcare providers often explain that such experiences can occur as the brain and body undergo significant changes.