**What Does It Mean When a Deceased Loved One Appears in Your Dream?**

Dreaming of someone who has passed away is common and can be deeply emotional. These “visitation dreams” often feel vivid and peaceful, with the deceased appearing healthy or younger. As neuroscientist Patrick McNamara explains, they are “dreams of the bereaved where the dead appear… and look to be very much alive.”
McNamara, who has studied dreams for years, describes his own powerful dream after his parents’ deaths: “I could not shake the conviction that I had just communicated with my dead parents.” He believes such dreams can aid emotional healing and may offer comfort during grief.

A 2014 study in the *American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Care* found these dreams are “highly meaningful and further healing from a loss,” often featuring the deceased at peace or delivering a message.In another study, 70% of grieving individuals felt these dreams were actual visits, and 71% said they felt more connected to the departed.Psychologist Jennifer Shorter notes these dreams often include messages like “I’m fine,” feel peaceful, and convey meaning in a telepathic way.
While their true nature is debated, visitation dreams can provide comfort and a continued sense of connection.