We don’t often like to think about our own mortality – but with a new study showing only around one in three Australians have taken action in preparation for the ends of their lives, now is a good time to sit down and make a plan.
Next Monday 8 August is Dying to Know Day, part of an annual campaign by The Groundswell Project to destigmatise conversations about death and dying and encourage Aussies to make decisions about what will happen when they’re gone.
According to Cherelle Martin, Dying to Know Campaign Manager at The Groundswell Project Australia, we need to reshape how we approach death, especially in the wake of COVID-19.
“At a time where our mortality is a part of our collective consciousness like never before, it is crucial to ensure that we normalise conversations around death and dying, so Australians can ‘get dead set’,” she said.
New data from a study commissioned by The Groundswell Project shows that while 87 per cent of Australians believe end-of-life planning is important, only 35 per cent have actually done any; additionally, 64 per cent feel there are barriers or challenges to them planning for end-of-life, including it being too emotional to think about, not knowing where to start or to get help or information, or not knowing their options.
“Our superstitions, fears, discomfort, and lack of knowledge about dying affect our approach to end-of-life. This new data emphasises that Australians think conversations – and action – around end-of-life is important.
“This new research highlights the many ways in which people can feel ill equipped to act or start a conversation. Sadly, this can mean that end-of-life experiences are not aligned with an individual’s values, preferences or wishes,” said Cherelle.
How to “get dead set”
According to The Groundswell Project, there are three key ways in which Australians can make sure they have their affairs in order:
- Capture your choices in writing – not just your will, but substitute decision-makers, social media instructions, organ donation, and the like; these can be documents or a starting point in a text or a scribble on a serviette.
- Have conversations with loved ones and others, making sure you understand each other’s wishes.
- Prepare your send-off – let people know what you want your funeral to look like, so you can be celebrated and remembered the way you want.
“Dying to Know Day provides Australians with an opportunity to come together, join the conversation and get dead set. Our localised events give people safe spaces to engage in meaningful conversations around death and learn more about how we can prepare for end-of-life,” said Cherelle.
Remember, the best time to start planning for the end of your life is now – because when it’s too late, it’s too late.
