Care at the End of Life

"Care at the End of Life" is a series of three modules that are specifically designed for use in a long-term care setting and can be delivered in 15-20 minute sessions for a total of one CEU. Together, the three modules prepare staff to cope more effectively and confidently with supporting residents and their families as time of death nears. The three modules are available in both instructor-led and web-based format.


Module 1: Managing Resident Care

This module helps direct care workers describe what is meant by a “good death” by teaching them to identify signs and symptoms that death is near. Workers will also be able to demonstrate ways to support residents and their families who are in their last days to hours of life.

Facilitator's Guide
Module 1 Test
Module 1 Test Key
Participant's Guide
Module 1 - Instructor-Led PowerPoint


Module 2: Preparing the Family

This module enables direct care workers understand what a change in condition is with regard to end of life. Workers will also gain an understanding of different cultural and spiritual traditions and practices and how these influence family and resident choices at the end of life. In addition, workers will learn ways to communicate support to families who are experiencing anticipatory grief.

Facilitator's Guide
Module 2 - Test
Module 2 - Test Key
Participant's Guide
Module 2 - Instructor-Led PowerPoint


Module 3: After the Death

This module addresses how direct care workers can identify when death has occurred and who can legally declare that death has occurred. Workers will gain a basic understanding of grief: aspects, normal signs and symptoms of grief as well as complications related to grief. Workers will be given tools to help other residents and themselves cope with ongoing loss in the long-term care community.

Facilitator's Guide
Module 3 - Test
Module 3 - Test Key
Participant's Guide
Module 3 - Instructor-Led PowerPoint