Why we all need to talk more openly about death
Intended for healthcare professionals
Editorial     Next

Why we all need to talk more openly about death

Zena Aldridge Consultant editor, Nursing Older People

A woman living with dementia once told me that she had tried to discuss her declining health with several health and social care professionals. She was in her nineties with multiple long-term conditions and aware she was approaching the end of her life. She began these discussions by saying: ‘I won’t be here this time next year.’ This was often met with a response such as: ‘Don’t be silly, you will outlive us all.’ The absurdity made her laugh.

Nursing Older People. 36, 4, 5-5. doi: 10.7748/nop.36.4.5.s1

Want to read more?

RCNi-Plus
Already have access? Log in

or

3-month trial offer for £5.25/month

Subscribe today and save 50% on your first three months
RCNi Plus users have full access to the following benefits:
  • Unlimited access to all 10 RCNi Journals
  • RCNi Learning featuring over 175 modules to easily earn CPD time
  • NMC-compliant RCNi Revalidation Portfolio to stay on track with your progress
  • Personalised newsletters tailored to your interests
  • A customisable dashboard with over 200 topics
Subscribe

Alternatively, you can purchase access to this article for the next seven days. Buy now


Are you a student? Our student subscription has content especially for you.
Find out more