What Should You Ask When Discussing End of Life Care? 

When the end-of-life journey becomes a reality for you or your loved one, it can feel overwhelming and deeply emotional. It’s a time of reflection, often bringing difficult yet necessary conversations about priorities, personal values and choices. At Shiloh Hospice, we understand the complexities of this process, and we are here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Open communication is key to shaping a meaningful end-of-life experience. Below, we outline essential questions to help you and your loved one explore what truly matters most.

What Are Your Goals?

One of the most important questions to start with is, “What are your goals?” For someone nearing the end of life, goals may vary widely. Some individuals may want to spend as much time as possible surrounded by family and friends, while others may wish to accomplish specific things, such as revisiting a cherished place or reconnecting with someone they care about. Goals might also include minimizing pain, achieving spiritual peace or simply maintaining a sense of control over decisions.

What Worries You?

End-of-life can bring a range of emotions, including fear and uncertainty. Asking your loved one, “What worries you?” allows them to express any concerns they may have. These worries might include physical discomfort, being a burden to family or leaving unresolved issues behind. 

Once these concerns are shared, the hospice care team at Shiloh can take steps to address them. Whether it’s managing pain, arranging counseling sessions or helping facilitate important conversations, our goal is to ease your loved one’s worries so they can focus on spending their remaining time meaningfully.

What Types of Outcomes Are Unacceptable to You?

Understanding what your loved one finds unacceptable is another critical step in these discussions. For example, some people may be clear about their desire to avoid invasive treatments that might prolong life without maintaining its quality. Others might have preferences about whether they receive care at home, in a hospice facility or elsewhere. This question helps clarify boundaries and ensures decisions about care respect your loved one’s values.

What is Your Idea of a Good Day?

End-of-life care is not only about addressing physical and medical needs; it’s also about finding moments of joy and connection. Asking, “What is your idea of a good day?” encourages loved ones to describe what brings them happiness or peace. For some, a good day might be enjoying a favorite meal, listening to music, spending quiet time with family or simply sitting outside in the sunshine.

Understanding these small but significant details empowers caregivers to create moments that bring comfort and meaning, even in challenging times.

How Shiloh Hospice Can Help

At Shiloh Hospice, we know that discussing end-of-life care is never easy, but starting the conversation is one of the most valuable gifts you can give your loved one—and yourself. These heart-to-heart discussions can foster deeper understanding and ensure everyone feels supported throughout this journey. By addressing your loved one’s specific goals, worries and desires, you create a care plan that truly honors their needs and wishes. 

Our compassionate team is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Contact Shiloh Hospice today, and together, we’ll ensure this chapter is approached with care.