IT’S TIME TO TALK ABOUT DYING
AUSTRALIANS of all ages will be encouraged to tackle a taboo topic with loved ones in a new multi-million government campaign to be launched today.
New figures show less than 15 per cent of Australians have an end-of-life care plan which makes it clear how they want to be treated in the final days.
Australia’s inaugural Advance Care Planning Week begins today, encouraging people of all ages to get organised and give certainty to themselves and their families.
The awkward topic will be explored across the nation through a range of conversation starters, quizzes and activities to help get people talking about death.
Beaconsfield widow Mary Reynolds, a nurse, says she is forever grateful she had broached the topic with her late husband Lloyd just days before his shock death.
She says knowing her husband’s wishes when he suffered a massive heart attack at work had made it easier to make tough decision.
“It gave me the confidence to make the call when I had to. I knew how Lloyd felt and, as sad as it was when the time came, I knew I was doing what he wanted,” Mary said.
“Having the conversation with your children or your partner might be awkward, but it’s something that you won’t regret.”
Across the nation during the next seven days, more than 100 events will be held to encourage Australians to discuss their future health care preferences with their loved ones.
Aged Care Minister Ken Wyatt will launch the campaign today with a $4.1 million pledge to Austin Health for three-year awareness and commitment program.
“Research shows that around half of us will be incapable of making our own medical decisions as we approach the end of our lives,”
He said one-third of Australians will die before the age of 75, and 85 per cent of them die from after a chronic illness, not a sudden event.
“Regardless of our age or current health status, talking about and preparing a plan sooner rather than later is important,” Mr Wyatt said.