Dying To Know Day

Each year on August the 8th we talk about dying. Sounds crazy right! But it shouldn’t sound crazy because talking about death and dying is exactly what we should be doing.

The Dying to Know campaign and Dying to Know Day aim to improve death literacy and positivity in individuals, communities, healthcare workers and other professionals.

It’s about building the knowledge, compassion and practical skills that help support actions and decision making around someone’s end-of-life choices.

We should all prepare for the unique set of circumstances that we will all face at the end of our lives.

Dying to Know Day encourages us to overcome our fears or discomfort around death and do something about end-of-life planning that is right for us.

The pandemic restrictions had a huge impact on people’s ability to see dying loved ones, arrange or attending funerals or even see family for support. So, it’s now more important than ever to plan.

Here’s some questions to think about:

  • What does a good death look like to you?
  • How do you want your life to be celebrated?
  • How do you want to involve your loved ones in your end-of-life planning?

Here’s some key stats around death and dying:

  • Over 70% of Australians want to die at home, but only 14% do as it takes proactive planning to help to die at home
  • 52% of Australians don’t have a valid will in place
  • While 90% of adults say that talking to their loved ones about their end-of-life wishes is important, only 27% had these conversations

Bellarine Community Health has a dedicated Specialist Palliative Care team that provides care and support for individuals with a life-limiting illness and their families/carers at home.

Our multi-skilled, experienced team delivers clinical, psychological, and spiritual support so that remaining at home is possible. Palliative care requirements differ and change over time, and our team regularly assess these needs and adapt accordingly.

BCH is proud to say that we have supported a staggering 65% of our clients to die in their place of choice.

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