Abstract
By way of its role as a separating third party, the nursing home helps residents and families through the process of separation that is essential to prepare for the end of life. This separation process is not always smooth sailing, because it generates distress for both residents and families. Although entry into a home, in itself, already entails physical separation, its role as a separating third party is not immediately established, and may encounter barriers and difficulties. Inter-disciplinary reflection is therefore essential. © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS