I had an experience of this when I was sitting with an apparently deeply unconscious woman friend holding her hand. Her daughter was in the room and was talking about her mother’s desperate situation and hoping that she would die quickly. I felt a definite squeeze on my hand and I squeezed back and that was it. I feel sure that she had been aware of what her daughter was saying even though she was profoundly unconscious. Of course I shall never know but I have never forgotten it. She died later that night. I think touch is known to be of major importance for the dying because it’s such an instant communication.
Yes, touch is so important. I read that even massaging oneself with oil has a beneficial affect. A bit of self care and love. A someone told me a few days back that she offered to hug a very severe and stiff woman, she said the woman suddenly softened and said no one hugs me now, they had a big hug and continue to do so when they meet.
She says she has now found a good friend so the benefit is two way.