The Conversation Project: End-of-Life Conversation Starter Kit
The Conversation Project is a public engagement initiative with a goal that is both simple and transformative: to have every person’s wishes for end-of-life care expressed and respected.
The Conversation Project began 2010, when Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Ellen Goodman and a group of colleagues and concerned media, clergy, and medical professionals gathered to share stories of “good deaths” and “hard deaths” within their own circle of loved ones.
Talking with your loved ones openly and honestly, before a medical crisis happens, gives everyone a shared understanding about what matters most to you at the end of life. You can use the End-of-Life Conversation Starter Kit whether you are getting ready to tell someone else what you want, or you want to help someone else get ready to share their wishes.
How to use the conversation starter kit
The Conversation Starter Kit doesn’t answer every question, but it will help you get your thoughts together, and then have the conversation with your loved ones.
You can use it whether you are getting ready to tell someone else what you want, or you rant to help someone else get ready to share their wishes.
Take your time. This kit is not meant to be completed in one sitting. It’s meant to be completed as you need it, throughout many conversations.
Why talking matters about end-of-life care matters
Sharing your wishes for end-of-life care can bring you closer to the people you love. It’s critically important. Any you can do it. Consider the facts:
- 90% of people say that talking with their loved ones about end-of-life care is important. 27% have actually done so.
- 60% of people say that making sure their family is not burdened by tough decisions is extremely important.
- 56% of people have not communicated their end-of-life wishes.
- 80% of people say that if seriously ill, they would want to talk to their doctor about wishes for medical treatment toward the end of their life. 7% report having had this conversation with their doctor.
- 82% of people say it’s important to put their wishes in writing. 23% have actually done it.
To learn more about The Conversation Project, and to download their Conversation Starter Kit (multiple languages available), please visit theconversationproject.org/starter-kits.
If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of a plan to age in place, contact Family Matters In-Home Care today for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.
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