Palliative Care Tasmania CEO Colleen Johnstone joins Dave to launch National Palliative Care Week where Tasmanians are encouraged to think about what matters most.
NATIONAL PALLIATIVE CARE WEEK: 21-26 May, 2018
Theme: What matters most?
What matters most to you? Is it being pain free? Is it chocolate and wine? Fancy dinners? Being close to your family and community, or all of the above?
May 20-26 is National Palliative Care Week and Tasmanians are being encouraged to think about what matters most, and start talking to family members and friends about their wishes and preferences for palliative and end of life care.
Palliative Care Tasmania CEO Colleen Johnstone said many people were still uncomfortable talking to their family and friends about death, dying and their wishes.
“It’s still a difficult topic to broach in conversation, but the reality is that 85 per cent of us will receive palliative care at some point, so it’s important to start thinking about it now,” Ms Johnstone said.
“We also encourage people to have a look online at the services available in different areas of the State – even if they currently have no need for those services, because in all likelihood, one day they or someone they love will.
“Receiving a life-limiting diagnosis is incredibly traumatic for families and the earlier people can research and learn about their available options, the better.”