Hospice: Survivor Planning

Survivors can begin planning for end-of-life care by asking themselves some basic questions and discussing their desires with loved ones.  If needed, the healthcare team can also help plan the best level of end-of-life care. 

If my condition gets worse, where do I want to live?

• Where would I feel most comfortable during my final months and weeks?
• Would this be my own home or the home of a loved one or friend?
• Could I be living in another residential setting such as an assisted living facility or nursing home?
• Would I like to go to a dedicated hospice setting, if available?
• Where do I want to die – at home or somewhere else?

Who would I want to take care of me, and who would I like to be my primary caregiver?

• Who do I want to help me with my daily care needs, such as bathing, dressing, eating and going to the bathroom?
• Who do I trust and feel totally comfortable with?
• Who in my life is able and willing to stay with me and care for me in my final days?
• Would my caregiver be my spouse, partner, another relative, friend, or neighbor?
• Would I like to have round-the-clock nursing or home health assistance?
• Can I afford such assistance since private services are not covered by hospice benefits?

What, if any, types of medical support do I want to receive as death approaches?

• Would I want health care workers to attempt to revive me with CPR if my heart or breathing stops?
• Do I want life support technology to be used to attempt to keep me alive?
• Do I want death to occur without medical interventions?

What hospice organizations and other end-of-life care organizations are available in my area?

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