Step 1: Get Ready
If you don’t want to talk about dying, one thing’s for sure—you’re not alone.
There are a million reasons to avoid having the conversation.
But it’s vitally important. And you can do it.
Consider the facts.
There’s a big gap between what people say they want and what actually happens.
60% of people say that making sure their family is not burdened by tough decisions is “extremely important”
56% have not communicated their end-of-life wishes
Source: Survey of Californians by the California HealthCare Foundation (2012)
70% of people say they prefer to die at home
70% die in a hospital, nursing home, or long-term care facility
Source: Centers for Disease Control (2005)
80% of people say that if seriously ill, they would want to talk to their doctor about end-of-life care
7% report having had an end-of-life conversation with their doctor
Source: Survey of Californians by the California HealthCare Foundation (2012)
82% of people say it’s important to put their wishes in writing
23% have actually done it
Source: Survey of Californians by the California HealthCare Foundation (2012)
One conversation can make all the difference.
Remember:
- You don’t need to talk about it just yet. Just think about it.
- You can start out by writing a letter—to yourself, your family, or a friend. Like this one.
- Having a practice conversation with a friend could help.
- These conversations may reveal that you and your loved ones disagree. That’s okay. It’s important to simply know this, and to continue talking about it now—not during a medical crisis.
PLEASE NOTE: This document does not seek to provide legal advice.