Unfinished business is taken care of. They begin to separate from the outside world, choosing only one or two people to stay with them until the end. During this time, nonverbal communication is often more meaningful than verbal communication. They are ready to let go. This is not to be confused with people who go to the nursing home saying they have no reason to live.
Resignation has bitterness.
Acceptance has a measure of peace. It is important that family and physicians recognize this stage of acceptance. Some patients fight to the end for life. Many deny death almost to the end. Others give up too early.