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 Introduction
Most of us do not plan for serious illness and death. And many of
us feel that if we don't talk about bad things, they won't happen
to us. However, talking, planning, and being better prepared for the
end of life can let you live fully and more comfortably in your final
days. Have you thought about the care you want during a severe illness
or as you are dying? Have you talked with your family about plans
to ensure you will get the care that you want? When you are very sick,
you are likely to have some times when you cannot say what you want
done. By deciding some things ahead of time, you can have a say in
your care.
How can you get started? First, think in very general terms. Do
you want every possible treatment tried, even when it involves mechanical
support for body functions, or even when it is not likely to work?
Do you want to die at home, even if doing that means not having
a way to get some treatments? Have you talked with your family about
the kind of care you want? Does your physician know how you feel?
Many of us don't take the time to figure out our wishes and hopes
for the end of our lives. Others write living wills, but don't tell
anyone what they really want that document to accomplish. These
conversations are an important part of living and dying well with
a serious illness.
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