Palliative Care Week
Advance Care Planning: Why it matters and how to start the conversation
As we mark National Palliative Care Week 2025, we are reminded of the importance of person-and family-centred care for those living with life limiting illness. Each year, this week celebrates the right of every individual to live as well as possible, for as long as possible – no matter their age or diagnosis. We caught up with The Forrest Centre’s Executive Manager – Care, Tania Tellus, to talk about the importance of talking about this stage of life and being ready for what comes next.
Why Advance Care Planning matters
Palliative care provides compassionate support to people of all ages facing life limiting illness such as dementia, heart and kidney disease, cancer, and many others. It's not only about managing symptoms, it’s about enhancing quality of life. Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a crucial part of this, empowering individuals to communicate their wishes clearly and confidently. Having these conversations early ensures that care aligns with personal values and relieves families of the burden of decision-making during challenging times.
Tania believes talking about the final stages with loved ones is critical in helping everyone to feel supported through the process. “Conversations about how you want to live and die are empowering; they honour your choices and reflect who you are. Death is a natural part of life, and talking about your wishes with loved ones can bring peace of mind and clarity when the time comes. Early discussions from the time of diagnosis also help guarantee the all-encompassing care you deserve.”
Having worked in palliative care for 36 years, Tania has some advice for having the difficult but necessary conversation with your loved ones.
How to start the conversation
Although discussing end-of-life care can be difficult, it helps to remember that it is an act of love and respect. Begin with gentle questions:
“What kind of care would you want if you couldn’t speak for yourself?”
“What matters most to you when thinking about your health and comfort?”
Choosing a comfortable setting, like in the family home, can make it easier to share. Listening with empathy and patience can open the door to meaningful conversations.
Honouring your wishes
Documenting your wishes through an Advance Care Directive ensures that your voice is heard, even if you can’t express it yourself when the time arrives. This simple step guarantees your care aligns with your values and provides guidance for those closest to you.
At The Forrest Centre, we are grateful for the dedication, compassion, and skill of the palliative care workforce, carers, and volunteers who make this journey more dignified and loving for families. This National Palliative Care Week let’s celebrate the power of choice, care, and compassion by starting these important conversations today.
What will matter most to you at the end of life? It’s a simple question yet one that many of us don’t think about much ahead of time.
Is it the people around you, the things you love doing, or the comfort of knowing your wishes are understood? Thinking about your health and care preferences now can make all the difference later.
This National Palliative Care Week, we’re encouraging everyone to start the conversation early with your loved ones.
Visit palliativecare.org.au for tools, advice, and support.
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