
“Meaning matters just as much as medicine at the end of life.” — Dr. Michelle Riba

“My heart became much lighter as I imagined her standing next to me, watching the blossoms drift slowly downstream.” — Karen Wyatt

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.

“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.

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?

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.

What challenges do LGBTQ elders face in finding a trusted individual to discuss their preferences for 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.

“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.'”