The last few weeks and days
Many complementary therapies aim to help you relax and reduce stress. They can help calm your emotions and relieve anxiety. Some people find that they improve symptoms such as:
pain
sickness
fatigue
depression
People who are dying find it helps to have gentle therapies such as:
massage
aromatherapy
reflexology
But other people find that being touched is too painful or uncomfortable. You might find other types of therapies more helpful, such as:
visualisation
meditation
reiki
Many palliative care wards and hospices have complementary therapists. They can treat you when you are dying.
Some hospitals, hospices and support groups offer complementary therapies for relatives and carers.
This can be a great help if you spend a lot of time at the bedside. Having a relaxing massage can be a very important support during this emotional time.
Last reviewed: 15 Jan 2025
Next review due: 15 Jan 2028
The phrases complementary therapy and alternative therapy are often used as if they mean the same thing. They may also be combined into one phrase – complementary and alternative therapies (CAMs).
In the last weeks of life there are ways to manage your symptoms and keep you comfortable. It can help carers to know what might happen in the final days.
When someone is dying with cancer, they and their carers can get help and support. This information might help at a very emotional and difficult time.
Coping with cancer can be difficult. There is help and support available. Find out about the emotional, physical and practical effects of cancer and how to manage them.
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