PBS 45 & 49 links

Final Decisions
A PBS 45 & 49 Local Follow-Up

Talking With Your Family

It can be difficult to begin talking about death and dying with your family. It can seem emotional, sad and frightening. Yet, talking can help provide peace of mind; it is an opportunity for everyone to learn about the needs and wishes of their loved ones.

It may be easier to think of it as an opportunity to share, not how we want to die, but how we want to live. Its best to talk about end-of-life issues before a crisis occurs. When there is an emergency and people feel pushed to make decisions, those involved may feel too anxious or preoccupied to talk about what is going on.

Discussing these issues ahead of time can give you the strength and commitment to be an advocate for your loved one.

Key topics for families to discuss include:

  • When would you want medical treatment to offer comfort rather than prolong life?

  • Who would you want to make your healthcare decisions if you could not speak for yourself?

  • What are your religious, cultural or philosophical beliefs about death and dying?

  • How do you want to live at the end of your life?

Reprinted by permission from the ON OUR OWN TERMS Discussion Guide. Copyright 2000 Educational Broadcasting Corporation and Public Affairs Television.

 

Taking Action

National & Local Resources

Talking With Your Family

On Our Own Terms: Moyers on Dying in America Web Site
 
Copyright©2001-2004, Northeastern Educational Television of Ohio, Inc. All rights reserved.