A Guide for Saying Goodbye to Your Loved One Who is Near the End, Even From Afar: Making a Loving Farewell by Phone
Saying goodbye to a loved one is one of the most difficult things anyone can ever face. It can be particularly challenging if you are not physically present with your loved one, especially if you are in a different time zone. Fortunately, with the advances in technology, there are numerous ways you can communicate with your loved one and offer them comfort and support during their final moments.
Choose the Right Device
The devices you use to communicate with your loved one will depend on your personal preference and the availability of technology. The most commonly used devices for communication include smartphones, tablets, and computers. If your loved one is in a hospital or hospice, they may have access to specialized communication devices such as videophones, which can offer a higher quality of communication.
Pick the Right Time
When calling a loved one who is in a different time zone, it is essential to be mindful of the time difference. Calling too early or too late can be disruptive to your loved one’s routine and rest. You should consider calling during the day or early evening, when your loved one is most likely to be awake and alert.
Be Present
Phone Calls
Phone calls are the most common form of communication, and they can offer a great way to connect with your loved one during their final moments. During a phone call, you can offer words of comfort and support, and even share memories and stories with your loved one. If your loved one is too weak to speak, simply being on the other end of the line can provide a great source of comfort.
Text Messages
Text messages can be a useful way to communicate with your loved one, particularly if they are too weak to speak or if they are in a noisy environment. Text messages are also a great way to send your loved one brief messages of support and love, which they can read at their own pace.
Email is another way to communicate with your loved one, particularly if you want to share more detailed messages or memories. Email can also be helpful if you want to send photos or other digital media to your loved one.
Social Media
Social media can be a great way to communicate with your loved one, particularly if they are active on social media. You can send messages, share photos and videos, and even video call through social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp.
Video Calls
Video calls are a great option for communicating with your loved one, especially if you are in a different time zone. Video calls offer a more personal connection, allowing you to see and hear your loved one in real-time. This can be particularly helpful if you want to read your loved one’s facial expressions and body language, which can often convey more than words alone.
Voice Messages
Voice messages are another way to communicate with your loved one if they are too weak to speak or if they are in a noisy environment. Voice messages can be particularly helpful if you want to convey emotion and offer words of comfort and support.
The devices you use to communicate will depend on your personal preference and the availability of technology. When calling from a different time zone, it is important to be mindful of the time difference and to choose an appropriate time to call. Ultimately, the most important thing is to be present and offer your loved one comfort, love, and support.
Saying goodbye to a loved one is one of the most challenging things anyone can face. But, with the advances in technology, it is now possible for you to say goodbye to your loved ones even when it is impossible for you to physically be by their side.
