Raising awareness of dying, death and bereavement

DEATH, dying and bereavement is not the kind of conversation people like to engage in for obvious reasons. But therein lies the dilemma as we must all face the realisation of death at some point in life – be it our own, or someone dear to us.

‘Dying Matters Awareness Week’ takes place in May every year and its aim is to make the circumstances and implications surrounding death a topic of conversation we should not shy away from.

Death is one of life’s certainties which makes it all the more puzzling why we, as a society, continue to avoid the indepth discourse surrounding it. It may sound glib to suggest death is something we can’t control; but it’s a reality which can be provided for and faced down in a manner that makes life a little easier now.

The primary aim of Awareness Week is to create ‘a big conversation’ about the inevitability of death and dying which can be carried out through the various voluntary and independent health and care sectors - including hospices, care homes, charities supports for older people, children and bereavement groups.

Other bodies that are encouraged to get behind ‘the big conversation’ includes social care and housing sectors, faith organisations, community organisations, schools and colleges, academic bodies, the legal profession and the funeral sector. One can clearly see that death is a topic of discussion that touches every surface of society which presses home the need to make it a topic of life’s journey.

Awareness Week is first and foremost about preparation and the creation of ‘end of life strategies’ contingent upon our own family and community. This can range from knowing where supports are when nearing the end of life which ensures dignity in old age. We can’t always predict the place of death but many of us can try and choose a preferred place that helps us accept and cope with dying in a more open fashion. This should be openly discussed with loved ones, family and friends.

Making a will with a solicitor is always a wise option to pursue, as is arranging a burial plot. But if we can take time out to discuss our death and afterlife instructions with a solicitor, than surely we can do likewise with those closest to us and the communities we live in.

Being treated as an individual with dignity and respect; being without pain and other symptoms; being in familiar surroundings in the company of close family and/or friends are all issues within our remit to control when alive and well. As individuals we must learn to desist from ‘internalising’ bereavement. If the latter is a reality of life, why must we loathe its discussion and impact?

We’re also urged to work towards our own ‘old age’ by discussing support systems that will tackle loneliness, isolation and insufficient health supports. In doing so our departure from this life can be made easier, more humane and more comfortable when the time arrives.

Make sure you have ‘the big conversation’ during Dying Matters Awareness Week.

‘Dying Matters Awareness Week’ takes place in May every year and its aim is to make the circumstances and implications surrounding death a topic of conversation we should not shy away from