Pope Francis’ death right after Easter sounds miraculous, but patients and caregivers often work together to delay dying
"Meaning matters just as much as medicine at the end of life." -- Dr. Michelle Riba (Continue reading ...)
When you can’t be present for a last goodbye
"My heart became much lighter as I imagined her standing next to me, watching the blossoms drift slowly downstream." -- Karen Wyatt (Continue reading ...)
Your life, your death: sharing your final wishes with your loved ones
The allure of quietly fading away, slipping silently into the night, holds a certain appeal. To avoid the fanfare, the potential for misunderstanding, the emotional burden on loved ones, seems like a peaceful resolution. However, modern society rarely affords us that luxury. (Continue reading ...)
There at the End: Voices from Final Exit Network
"There at the End: Voices from Final Exit Network: A Celebration of 20 Years" shares powerful testimonies from individuals connected to Final Exit Network (FEN), showcasing the organization's dedication to supporting mentally competent adults suffering from terminal conditions in their right to choose death. (Continue reading ...)
Where There’s a (Living) Will, There’s a Way
What happens if you decide to update your Advance Directive or your surrogate? Will you remember to send it to your doctors, lawyer, surrogate, etc.? How will individuals be sure they have the latest copy? (Continue reading ...)
Is end of life its own stage of life?
The concept of the end of life is a period that has evolved over time, with a longer duration due to advancements in health care. The end of life stage is likened to other life course stages, with specific tasks and preparations needed for a smooth transition. (Continue reading ...)
LGBTQ Older Adults Face Unique End-of-Life Issues
What challenges do LGBTQ elders face in finding a trusted individual to discuss their preferences for end-of-life care? (Continue reading ...)
Pain management during end-of-life care
Pain management is a cornerstone of compassionate end-of-life care. Prioritizing comfort and proactively addressing pain allows hospice patients to find dignity and peace in their final days. (Continue reading ...)
End of life care for people with developmental disabilities: why talking about this taboo subject with your loved one early on is important
"Even a person who is very, very ill or who has a psychiatric illness or Down syndrome can say 'Don't do this to me.'" (Continue reading ...)
Making Your Final Wishes Known
A new workbook by a Minneapolis cardiologist offers guidance and reflective prompts to prepare for conversations with loved ones about end-of-life topics. (Continue reading ...)