Who Should Have the Conversation
Talking about death is difficult for most of us. Many of us avoid this conversation until we are facing end-of-life decisions for ourselves or a loved one. Having the conversation now will make it easier when you or your loved one is faced with a serious illness or sudden health emergency.
We encourage you to start the conversation if you are:
- Someone who wants their family to know their wishes
- An adult child who wants to know their parent's wishes
- Someone coping with a life-limiting illness
- Someone starting a new family
- A young adult who may need to make decisions due to unexpected injury or illness
It is important for anyone over the age of 18 to know your options and have a conversation with your family and your doctor about your wishes.
Important facts:
- Approximately 8 out of 10 Americans would prefer to die at home. However, only 20% of Americans do.
- Only 3 out of 10 Americans have an advance directive.
- 3 out of 4 Americans don't understand the role Hospice plays in end-of-life care and the options available to them.