Dying Matters Week

Dying Matters Week 2021 is being held from the 10th to the 16th of May. The aim of the week is to open up the conversation about death and all that is involved. This year the overall theme of the week is “being in a good place to die”, which can be an important discussion to have in your care home.

Being In A Good Place To Die

Being in a good place to die has a number of different meanings behind it. These include:

• Physically (place of death, Advance Care Planning)
• Emotionally (talking about death, making sure loved ones are cared for)
• Financially (making a will, making funeral plans)
• Spiritually (How different faith groups talk about and prepare for death)
• Digitally (Looking at digital assets, social media, online banking)

There has previously been a fair amount of hushed tones when it comes to the topic of dying, however, Dying Matters Week hopes to encourage us to have those conversations with our loved ones. The above list is all vital talking points, not only for the individual but also for the loved ones around them.

Accepting The Inevitable

Unfortunately, we are all aware that one day our time will come, and all we can do is accept that as a fact. When it comes towards that time for your loved one, the best thing you can do for them is to have that conversation. This can help to allow them to come to terms with what is happening and allow them to talk through anything they wish for you to know. Whether this is their emotional health, or how they want you to address things upon their departure.

Physical Location

When your loved one is in a home, or if your home has an individual whose time is near, the conversation can be had as to where they wish to spend their remaining time. While we appreciate it will be easier for them to remain in a home, many families will choose to bring them home, surrounded by those who love them.
It may be the wish of the individual or their family, however, preparations will need to be put in place before any movement is done to ensure a smooth transition.

Furnishing Your Space

We know that the dying matters conversation is a difficult one to have with anyone. So ensure that you are having it in the most comfortable environment possible for all those involved.
If you are planning to use the lounge space, a range of chairs, including high back and tub chairs allows people to find the right seat for them.
If you are looking for a slightly more formal environment, or have things to show during the talk, why not consider having the conversation at a table, such as a dining table. This will also allow you to provide drinks and snacks to take some of the pressures off the conversation.

If you are considering swapping out your existing furnishings for something new, please get in touch with a member of our friendly team today who will be more than happy to go through your requirements and offer some suggestions that will be relevant to you. Check back regularly to our blogs for a range of information on our products and information for your home.