End of Life

Although we have been educated time and time again throughout the last three years about the importance of discussing end-of-life care with our own family members, it does not discount how difficult the conversation can be. I know that I would not want to be placed on life-support for an extended period of time knowing that my quality of life if survival was possible would be severely declined. I also know that I would not want to place this financial and emotional burden on my family. After opening up this conversation with my husband, I was surprised to find that he would want a very different approach. I am grateful for the opportunity to have had to discuss this topic, since any moment can very well be the last to discuss it. After having had our conversation, I definitely believe I could trust him with this decision. I also had the opportunity to discuss the topic with my mother who feels very similarly to me in the regard. Although I know how difficult it will be when the time comes to respect her wishes, I am confident I will be able to. I was also able to see the influence culture has on this decision when talking to my mom about the topic. As we discussed the options, she shook her head and adamantly refused, explaining that her wishes are to go as naturally as possible.

Culture plays a large role in our discussion of aging and end-of-life with my parents. I think of my grandmother who is 92 years old and her aging experience, and have seen the large role her children have played in it. Her sons especially have taken an active role in her care. I have always expected to be the one to care for my mother as she ages and nears death, although she has never expected it from me. Although this end-of-life continues to be a difficult topic to address, I found myself better equipped to relate to my patients and their families. No doubt an advanced healthcare directive is something that both myself and my husband must set out to prepare so that our wishes might be made clear when the moment comes.