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Writer's pictureJustin Higgins

What are the four stages of death timeline?

Updated: Jun 7, 2023


As someone who has experienced a near-death experience (NDE), I am often asked about the stages of the death timeline. While each person's experience of dying is unique, there are commonly recognized stages that many people go through as they approach death.


The 4 stages of death timeline can be divided into four distinct stages: pre-active, active, transitional, and active dying. Each stage is characterized by specific physical and emotional changes. Understanding the stages of the death timeline can help individuals and their loved ones prepare for the end of life and provide support during the dying process.


1. Pre-active stage


The pre-active stage is the first stage in the death timeline. During this stage, the person may experience a decrease in appetite, energy, and urine output. They may also begin to withdraw from social activities and become more introspective. In addition, the person may experience changes in their breathing patterns, such as gasping or shallow breathing, and changes in their heart rate. This stage can last for days or weeks, depending on the individual.


2. Active stage


The active stage is the second stage in the death timeline. During this stage, the person becomes increasingly weak and may experience difficulty communicating. They may also experience increased restlessness, confusion, and agitation. The person's breathing may become irregular and their heart rate may fluctuate. In addition, the person may experience changes in their skin color and temperature.


3. Transitional stage


The transitional stage is the third stage in the death timeline. During this stage, the person may experience a decrease in their level of consciousness and become unresponsive. Their breathing may become shallow and irregular, and their heart rate may slow down. The person may also experience changes in their body temperature and blood pressure. This stage can last for a few minutes to a few hours.


4. Active dying stage


The active dying stage is the final stage in the death timeline. During this stage, the person's breathing may become labored and irregular, and they may experience periods of apnea (no breathing). Their heart rate may also become irregular and eventually stop. The person may experience a sense of detachment from their body and may report seeing or hearing things that are not present. This stage can last for a few minutes to several hours before the person passes away.


It is important to note that not all people experience all stages of the death timeline, and some people may experience them in a different order or for a different duration. It is also important to remember that the dying process is unique to each individual and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including age, illness, and overall health.



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