If by “a delicate stage” you mean an older person may be approaching the last days or hours of life, several changes can occur. They are not a precise prediction of when someone will die, and some can have other medical causes, so a healthcare professional should assess significant changes.
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Four changes that may appear
Much more sleepiness and weakness
The person may spend increasing amounts of time asleep, have less energy, move less, and eventually become difficult to wake.
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Reduced appetite and difficulty swallowing
Interest in food and fluids often decreases, and swallowing medicines or drinks can become difficult. This can be a natural part of the dying process rather than simply “not eating enough.”
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Changes in breathing
Breathing may become irregular, with periods of shallow or deeper breathing followed by pauses. Noisy breathing can also occur when mucus accumulates.
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Changes in awareness and circulation
Confusion, withdrawal, or restlessness can occur. Hands and feet may become cool, and the skin can change color as circulation slows.
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These changes can be upsetting to witness, but they don’t necessarily mean the person is suffering. Pain, breathlessness, agitation, or other distress should be reported to the medical or palliative-care team so they can provide appropriate comfort.
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National Institute on Aging
If you meant four warning signs that an elderly person is becoming seriously ill (rather than approaching end of life), that’s a different list.
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