Dying Matters Awareness Week facilitates conversations about end-of-life care in local communities every year. The theme for this year is “The way we talk about Dying Matters,” which emphasises the significance of language and communication in providing patients, their families, and carers with compassionate end-of-life experiences.
As part of a video series for Dying Matters Awareness Week, staff members at Keech Hospice Care shared their best advice on how to talk to people about death and dying. The videos will offer practical advice on how to handle them and serve to increase awareness of the significance of having an honest conversation about death.
The video series gives helpful advice for starting open and sincere conversations about death and dying. Hospice workers from all throughout the UK have contributed. It covers such topics as speaking clearly, offering assistance, and showing consideration for a patient’s choices.
Palliative medicine consultant Dr. Lucy Pain of the North London Hospice stated: “The misery that bereaved and terminally ill people experience is frequently made worse by our society’s aversion to talking about death. Dying Matters Awareness Week offers an essential forum for encouraging candour and solidarity around these discussions.”
Dr. Pain emphasised the significance of starting these discussions, saying, “Don’t be frightened to talk about dying and death. Most people who are elderly or have a life-limiting illness are willing to talk about their goals and worries. By having conversations, we can offer consolation and assistance when it’s most required.”
Her go-to conversation starter was also given by her: “Just ask, ‘How are you feeling about the future?'” It’s a tiny action that has a huge impact.”
Hospice UK’s Senior Communications and Engagement Officer, Ruby Wroe, stated:
Sincere, timely conversations on death and dying are crucial because they can change a person’s final moments and provide clarity for friends and family on what to expect. We’re having talks on the language we use when discussing death and dying and why it matters during Dying Matters Awareness Week.
We’re encouraging everyone to have these crucial talks and to consider the language we use when doing so, whether it’s with coworkers, family, friends, or medical professionals. By being open and honest about death, we hope that more people will receive the help and resources they require at the appropriate time.
Dying Matters Awareness Week, which takes place in 2024 from May 6–12, encourages communities all around the UK to have discussions regarding end-of-life care.
During Dying Matters Awareness Week, Hospice UK is urging everyone to participate in the dialogue—whether it is with medical professionals, friends, or coworkers.
