Who do I need around me at the end of my life?

There are three main areas to consider in the support you will need: medical, practical and emotional support. Some can only be done by medical professionals, others can be done by service providers, friends, family or spiritual leaders. Remember that people may also want people around them at the end of their life other than those mentioned here.

Medical support

It is usual to have a healthcare team that includes:

• your GP

• nursing staff

• allied health, such as social worker, physiotherapist, counsellor or occupational therapist

• palliative care team

• treating team for a specific disease such as cancer, cystic fibrosis or heart disease.

If you do not have access to any of these services but think they could help, ask your GP for a referral.

Practical support

You may need to find people who can help you with:

• housework

• shopping, cooking and feeding

• showering, bathing and toileting

• help getting in and out of bed

• managing medication

• childcare

• education support

• transport

• completing and sorting important documents

• managing finances

• talking to service providers

• other odd jobs and errands.

Lots of these things can be done by family and your community. However, your healthcare team can assist if you need more help. This may include sourcing equipment to maintain independence at home, such as toileting aids, shower chairs or mobility aids.

Emotional support

For many people, friends, family and your community are a good source of emotional support. You may wish to have someone you trust with you when you speak to health professionals or or support services.

,Let your carer, friend or family member know what you would like them to do. It’s normal for these conversations to be hard. It’s okay if you can’t talk to the people around you about certain things.

It’s okay to seek support outside your usual network. Here are some ways to find support or more information:

• Call Lifeline’s 24/7 crisis support phone number on 13 11 14.

• Talk to your healthcare team.

• Read more tips on talking about your situation.

• Look for peer support groups, such as by searching Precious Time’s directory for support

• groups or grief and bereavement services.