Dear Barbara, I recently found out I am to be the Power of Attorney for my parents (who are in their 80s). I am interested in resource material that can guide me in how to discuss end of life wishes with them. They are healthy.   First, there are two kinds of Power of Attorney. One addresses […]

I told my husband, who is having health challenges, that people literally, all over the world, listen to my advice and opinions on living the best you can until you can’t BUT to him, I’m just a wife of 60 years. Since he isn’t listening I’m going to share with you: With gradual dying from […]

Just like hospice regulations were created decades ago, end of life doulas functions are now being formalized. Hospice performs the medical, doulas do not. During a Question and Answer session with a group of end of life doulas I was presented with the question, “Is mouth care at end of life considered medical or comfort care?“ It had never occurred […]

When the doctor says, “We are having a difficult time fixing you;” “I can’t fix you, let’s talk about comfort care;” “We have tried everything and the treatments are not working to eliminate the disease progression;” “I can not give you the quality of living that we were hoping for with the treatments at our disposal;” or “Let’s talk […]

Dear Barbara, My dad is on hospice and the end is approaching. I would like to get guidance on how to plan his celebration of life. He does not attend church and would hate a cold, uncaring service conducted by someone who didn’t know him.   Think with your heart. What would be appreciated and […]

Barbara, My father has stomach cancer and is now home on hospice care. My question to you is based on the 2-4-6 months to live. Stage 1 is decrease in eating. He is unable to eat due to his cancer. Is there a sign other than stage 1 (decrease of eating) regarding my dad? As […]