Advice on how to make conversations about end-of-life easier

The advice comes ahead of Hospice UK's annual Dying Matters Week, which runs from May 6-12.

This initiative aims to shift attitudes around such difficult conversations from avoidance to initiation, easing potential conflict, uncertainty and stress for everyone involved.

Sylvian Care wants to make these conversations easier (Image: PA)

Liz Oti, registered manager of home care service Sylvian Care Cherwell and West Oxfordshire, in Banbury, explained why this shift is crucial, offering practical steps to prepare families for end-of-life.

Discussing an individual’s end-of-life wishes provides everyone involved with clarity about their preferences for care, treatment and final arrangements.

Such conversations also minimise potential disagreements and misunderstandings with other family members, she said.

This allows the individual to assert their autonomy and ensures their wishes are respected by their loved ones.

In addition to providing a sense of peace and comfort, discussing and planning ahead minimises the stress of making important decisions at a time of grief, maintaining the dignity and respect of the individual who has passed away.

Open communication aids the grieving process, providing a sense that the deceased's wishes are being honoured.

Ms Oti offered five practical suggestions to create a supportive environment for having conversations about end-of-life care.

Firstly, she recommended choosing a safe and comfortable environment to talk about end-of-life plans.

She also said people should encourage the individual to write a will to avoid potential conflicts and to assert their wishes regarding asset distribution.

Those who are at the end of their life may appreciate assistance in organising important documents such as insurance policies and financial accounts.

Ms Oti also urged people to discuss their options for home care or end-of-life care to ensure they are comfortable and get their preference.

Her final piece of advice was to talk about funeral and burial arrangements to ensure loved ones get what they want.

Taking these steps and openly discussing death can help relatives feel supported and prepared.

This approach can significantly reduce stress and uncertainty, while ensuring dignity during this challenging period.

The Dying Matters Week initiative is significant to the team at Sylvian Care Cherwell and West Oxfordshire.

The home care service is aiming to promote the idea that these discussions do not have to be difficult and wants to reaffirm the importance of planning for end-of-life situations.

For more information on Dying Matters Week and the events happening around the country, visit the Hospice UK website.

If you or a loved one need home care, learn more about Sylvian Care Cherwell and West Oxfordshire’s offerings via their website.