FAQs and Myths: End-of-Life

FAQ's

1. What is End-of-Life Care

It is a type of palliative care provided in the Individuals who are in the final stages of a terminal illness or nearing the end-of-life when curative treatments are no longer an option. It focuses on symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, and preparation for death.

 

2. What are the goals of end-of-life care?

It aims to ensure comfort, dignity, and peace for the patient as they approach death, and to support the family during and after the process.

 

3. What happens if a patient doesn’t want life-prolonging treatments?

The care team focuses on symptom management, comfort, and supporting the patient’s decision to forgo life-prolonging interventions

 

 

Myths

1. Medical aid in dying is the only path to a dignified death

The concept of "dying with dignity" is deeply personal and varies across cultures and individuals. For some, it means avoiding unnecessary medical interventions, tests, or treatments, while for others, it involves passing away peacefully in a safe and comforting environment. Options such as palliative care, the refusal or withdrawal of treatment, and continuous palliative sedation also provide compassionate end-of-life choices that uphold dignity.

 

2. Refusing life support invalidates your life insurance because it is considered suicide

Choosing to forgo life support is not considered suicide. Instead, the cause of death is attributed to the underlying medical condition, not the decision to decline treatment.

 

3. More care is always better

Fact: More medical intervention does not always lead to better outcomes. In some cases, it may prolong the dying process without prioritizing comfort or quality of life. Understanding which treatments are truly beneficial can be challenging, which is why guidance from a healthcare team is essential in making informed decisions.

 

4. Doctors will always tell me when my loved one is nearing the end of life

Many doctors find it challenging to discuss dying with patients. Some see death as a medical failure, while others may feel unprepared to initiate the conversation. There can also be uncertainty about which healthcare provider should take the lead in these discussions. If you're concerned, don’t hesitate to bring up the topic yourself.

 

5. Dying is always painful

While some individuals may experience pain or discomfort, modern palliative and hospice care offer effective treatments to manage symptoms and provide comfort, ensuring a peaceful end-of-life experience.