Planning for the end of life is a gift to your loved ones. Preparation means less confusion around care preferences and other end-of-life matters. Time together during the holiday season is ideal for starting the conversation with those close to you.

Begin by having everyone answer the following questions:

• What will you remember most about me when I’m no longer here?
• What would I want a doctor to know if I needed medical care and couldn’t speak for myself?
• What is an advance directive?
• I know there’s a lot of uncertainty and fear around dementia, but planning for it makes me feel prepared. If I am ever diagnosed with dementia, what would my priorities be?
• How do I want to be remembered after I die?
• What do I want my last moments to be like, and who should be present?
• What kind of memorial event, if any, would I prefer?

Compassion & Choices’ Tools to Finish Strong can help you ask and answer important end-of-life questions.

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