In the quiet, sacred moments before death, something remarkable often occurs. A gesture so common yet deeply moving that it has become one of the most talked-about observations among hospice nurses and caregivers.
Katie Duncan, a Maryland-based nurse practitioner and “death care coach,” recently shared a phenomenon she’s witnessed time and again in her years of working with patients nearing the end of their lives. In a now-viral TikTok video, she described what many describe as a mystical moment: just before passing, patients often reach upward—toward an unseen presence—as if connecting with someone or something beyond this world.
This simple movement, both tender and enigmatic, has been seen across cultures and age groups, sparking conversations about life, death, and what may lie beyond.
What Is This Upward Reach?
Katie explains that it’s not uncommon for those near death to lift their hands toward the air, sometimes even holding them there for several seconds. The motion appears intentional, almost reverent—not frantic or confused.
“You’ll literally see someone reach up, like they’re trying to hold someone’s hand or touch something in the air,” she said in her TikTok post.
Some patients will speak about what they’re seeing—loved ones who have passed, angels, bright lights—while others remain silent but still make the same reaching motion.
This behavior is often accompanied by what are known as terminal or end-of-life hallucinations , where patients report visions of people, places, or spiritual figures not visible to others in the room.
A Common Observation in Hospice Care
Duncan isn’t alone in her observations. Many hospice workers, nurses, and family members caring for loved ones at home have reported similar experiences—patients seem drawn to something just out of reach, above them.
These moments are rarely distressing. Instead, they often bring a sense of peace and calm to the person who is dying. As Duncan notes:
“If anything, they seem comforted. These visions, whatever their origin, often bring people a deep sense of calm.”
She adds that these gestures and visions can be humbling for caregivers to witness—a reminder that death, while final, can also be a beautiful and meaningful experience.
Are These Visions Real?
While science hasn’t fully explained this phenomenon, researchers suggest several theories:
- Neurological Changes: As the brain begins to shut down, especially due to decreased oxygen or changes in blood flow, visual and sensory hallucinations can occur.
- Spiritual Beliefs: Many families interpret these actions as signs that the patient is seeing loved ones waiting for them on the other side.
- Psychological Comfort: Whether real or imagined, these visions may offer emotional closure or reassurance during the transition from life to death.
Regardless of interpretation, healthcare professionals agree: these moments should not be dismissed or corrected.
Instead, they should be honored.
Why It Matters
Watching a loved one reach up in their final hours can be confusing or even unsettling to those unfamiliar with the process. But for those who understand, it’s a sign that the person may be entering the final stage of life.
Katie emphasizes that these moments don’t signal pain or fear—they often reflect comfort and connection.
“It’s one of the more mysterious aspects of death that we’re lucky enough to witness as caregivers. It’s humbling,” she says.
Families who recognize this gesture can find solace in knowing their loved one may be experiencing something peaceful—perhaps even transcendent.
Real Stories Shared Online
Since Duncan’s TikTok was posted, many viewers have commented with their own stories, confirming that this phenomenon is far from rare.
💬 One commenter wrote:
“My dad reached up with both arms. Before that, he hadn’t been able to lift them at all.”
💬 Another said:
“It’s the in-between. What a privilege to witness.”
💬 And another added:
“It’s heaven they’re reaching for.”
These responses highlight how personal and profound the experience is—for both the dying and those who love them.
What You Can Do If You Witness This Moment
If you’re present with a loved one during this time and notice them reaching upward, here’s what experts recommend:
- Stay Calm: Don’t panic or try to correct them—it’s a natural part of the process.
- Don’t Interrupt: Let them experience what they need to without interruption.
- Speak Gently: If they mention what they’re seeing, listen quietly and lovingly. Reassure them they’re safe.
- Honor the Moment: Consider it a sacred gift to witness their transition with such grace.
A Glimpse Into the Unknown
There is no definitive scientific explanation for why people reach upward as they approach death—but perhaps that’s okay.
Moments like these remind us that the end of life doesn’t always arrive with fear or pain. Sometimes, it arrives with peace, purpose, and mystery .
And for those who get to witness it, it can feel less like a goodbye—and more like a welcome home .
As Duncan says, these moments are not only normal—they are beautiful.
So if you ever find yourself at the bedside of someone near the end of their journey, and they reach up into the air… take a breath.
They may already be touching something we cannot see.
