Posted on July 16th, 2024

Dying with Dignity with Elizabeth Uslander on Conversations with Joan

As a society, we often shy away from discussing death, yet it is a part of life that requires thoughtful planning and consideration. It’s common to wonder how you can best support those you love through their end of life journey or how you can plan for yours.

In this episode of “Conversations with Joan,” host Joan Herman dives deep into the often avoided topic of end-of-life care with Elizabeth Uslander, co-founder of Empowered Endings. Elizabeth shares invaluable insights on the importance of early planning, the role of end-of-life doulas, and how to navigate the healthcare system effectively. She shares the importance of end-of-life care that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Here are some key topics covered in this discussion:

Empowerment Through Planning: Early and thoughtful planning for end-of-life care empowers individuals to maintain dignity and control over their final days.

Holistic and Personalized Care: Utilizing the services of end-of-life doulas and other holistic care providers can greatly enhance the quality of the end-of-life experience for both patients and their families.

Advocacy is Crucial: Having an advocate ensures that patients’ wishes are respected and helps navigate complex medical decisions.

Legal Options for End-of-Life: Medical aid in dying is an

 evolving legal option that offers a compassionate choice for terminally ill patients seeking control over their death.

Importance of Communication: Open, compassionate conversations about end-of-life wishes are essential and can significantly improve the experience for all involved.

This conversation emphasizes the value of proactive planning, the benefits of holistic care approaches, and the need for open dialogue about end-of-life options. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to empower themselves and their loved ones with the knowledge and resources to ensure a dignified and respectful end-of-life experience.