Care at the end of life
It can be confronting to talk about death and dying, but it is important to explore the options for where the person may die and to understand their wishes. Your wishes as the carer also need to be considered. Talking about the options early while the person is still well can help avoid distress and regrets or feelings of guilt later.
Many people say that they would like to die at home. Dying at home usually depends on having at least one carer available at all times. Carers may immediately feel committed to making sure this happens, or they may feel very daunted by the idea. Finding out more about the support available from the palliative care team and other services may help with your decisions and provide reassurance.
Not everyone wants to die at home, and some people change their minds as their situation changes. Depending on the circumstances, a person can be cared for at the end of life by health professionals in a hospital, a palliative care unit (hospice), or a residential aged care facility. Some carers feel guilty about handing over the everyday care to somebody else, but it can allow you to spend more time just being together. If you wish, you can assist the staff with physical duties.
For more about the options at the end of life, call Cancer Council 13 11 20, download a booklet from this page, or see Facing End of Life.
Listen to podcasts on Cancer Affects the Carer Too and How to Help Someone with Cancer
This information was last reviewed in September 2017.
Support services
Support for carers
Cancer Council NSW offers carers support online, over the phone and in person and can link you to our practical support services
Need legal and financial assistance?
Pro bono services, financial and legal assistance, and no interest loans
Cancer information
Advanced cancer
Information about cancer that has spread or come back
Facing end of life
Information about the issues facing people who are dying with cancer
View our publications
Guides and fact sheets for people with cancer, their families and friends
