Starting Conversations: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Talking about the end of our life can feel taboo, but the fact is we will all be in that stage of life at some point, and having a plan, or at least making our wishes known, can make a better end of life experience for yourself and your loved ones. Having these discussions can be extremely helpful in identifying what we want, and just as important, what we don’t want through the different stages of life.

Having trouble getting this conversation started? That's okay! This can be a tricky topic to approach. Try asking yourself or a loved one some of the questions below to get the conversation flowing.

Questions to consider:

• What does quality of life mean to me? Reducing symptoms, being comfortable, living longer with the risk of side effects, being around loved ones, etc...
• If my time were short, what would a good day look like? Spending time with family and friends, fighting for a cure with my care team, reducing symptoms and being comfortable, etc...
• What do I need to do to get my affairs in order? Finances, property, relationships, pets, etc...
• What worries me most about the future?
• What do I want to happen to my body? Do I want to be an organ donor?
• If I can't achieve my plan A, what is my plan B?

Communication

Communication is key in receiving the care you and your loved ones want.

Advanced directives

Services and legal documents

Treatment

Curative vs life-sustaining treatment

Power of attorney

Making decisions

Join the conversation!

Talking with others about their experience can also be helpful in approaching this topic. Join the conversation here to share your thoughts or hear from others regarding advanced directives.