It is difficult to discuss the end of life, especially with someone close to you who is reaching the point where they will soon require end-of-life care. Nevertheless, this is an important conversation that needs to be had. You can only respect your loved one’s wishes if you know them.
Below, we go over some key questions to ask that can help you understand what your loved one prefers during the end-of-life stage.
- If you were to receive a terminal diagnosis with no cure, what treatments would you want to pursue? Which would you want to avoid?
- What environment do you want to be in during the end of life? Where would you prefer to die?
- Who do you want to be able to make medical decisions for you, especially if or when you are unable to speak for yourself? Have you taken the legal steps necessary to grant that person medical power of attorney?
- Which people do you want to be with you during your final days or hours?
- Would you prefer to be pain-free and less awake, or more awake, but in more pain?
- Do you want to receive CPR if you need it, with the knowledge that CPR can break bones and result in additional complications for your health?
- What value do you place upon your autonomy? How important is it for you to be able to live independently and make your own decisions?
- What are your wishes for what happens to your remains? Would you prefer them to be cremated, buried, or donated?
- Do you want a memorial service of some kind performed? If so, what would you like it to be like?
Knowing what questions to ask is the easiest part of this process. Harder is finding a way to broach the topic with your loved one.
Some people will be willing to discuss their end-of-life wishes directly with family or friends. But others may shy away from the topic.
For the latter, if possible, see if you can connect them with resources they may be more comfortable using, like healthcare workers or volunteers who can help them prepare their legal documents, and/or worksheets that can walk them through their end-of-life preferences and how to share them.
Sometimes a loved one may never be willing to do end-of-life planning. In those cases, pay attention and try to pick up on as much of their wishes as you can.
We Can Ensure Your Loved One’s Wishes are Respected
Journey Palliative and Hospice prioritizes patient autonomy and dignity. Our staff work hard to respect and honor your loved one’s end-of-life preferences, including in scenarios where they can no longer speak for themselves. We work closely with the primary caregiver every step of the way.
To learn more about how we can help, please give us a call at (818) 748-3427 to schedule your consultation with Journey.
