For most people, death is depressing and terrifying. This is often because there is so much unknown about death. But one hospice/palliative care nurse finds the job inspiring.

She believes that educating people about what happens before death can help make the process easier and more meaningful for the individuals and their loved ones. But there are a few end-of-life phenomena that occur that even she cannot fully explain. One is called “visioning”.

What is Visioning?

The term is also known as End-of-Life Dreams and Visions (ELDVs). It refers to when hospice patients report visions, while awake or sleeping, of people who are not there.

Since delirium often comes with the dying process, these reports are easily overlooked by professionals and loved ones looking after the patients. However, paying attention to ELDVs can help support and reassure the patients and help their loved ones connect with them in their final moments.

Types of Visions

This deathbed phenomena often involves visions of religious figures or deceased friends, relatives, or even pets. These visions are peaceful and comforting. Sometimes it is an unfamiliar person with a soothing presence. The visions may also involve meaningful settings or memories. ELDVs tend to indicate the patient has only a few weeks left to live.

Visioning or Hallucinating?

Delirium and visioning may sound similar but they are very different. Hallucinations from delirium tend to be stressful and disorienting, and accompanied by a lack of awareness and focus.

Meanwhile, visioning is a comforting experience that can come alongside full awareness and lucidity. However, many patients won’t report ELDVs in fear of ridicule or embarrassment.

An End-Of-Life Nurse

Julie McFadden, BSN, RN, cultivated a following on TikTok where she demystifies death by talking about her work. “People often ask, ‘Isn’t it so depressing?’ It’s sad sometimes, yes. There’s really no way around that,” she wrote on Time.