Choosing where to die

It can be hard to think about where you would prefer to die. The choice can depend on:

• what you would like
• what help you have from family and friends
• the services available where you live
• your medical condition.

Some people prefer to die at home, surrounded by the people and things that are important to them. Others may prefer to be somewhere like a hospice. Wherever you are cared for, it is important that your symptoms are well managed and you get the care you need. This can happen in different places.

Hospices specialise in caring for people who have a terminal illness and may be close to the end of their life.

They have doctors and specialist palliative care nurses who are experts in controlling symptoms such as pain. They also provide emotional support. Many hospices have nurses and healthcare assistants who can visit and help care for people at home. These are sometimes called Hospice at Home services.

You can go into a hospice for different reasons. For example, you may stay there for a short time to get your symptoms under control. Some hospices offer respite care. This means you can go in for a short time to give your carer a break. Your palliative care team can tell you what is available at your local hospice.

You may decide that you would prefer to die in a hospice. You will need to discuss your wishes with your GP and the hospice team involved with your care. You may also want to talk about your wishes with close family members, friends or a partner.

Hospices are very different to hospitals. They are smaller and quieter, and aim to provide care to suit each person’s situation.

Visiting is usually less restricted than in a hospital. As well as practical nursing care, they may offer other services for patients and their families. These may include counselling, spiritual care, and psychological support.

Accommodation and care in a hospice are free of charge. There is a limited number of beds in each hospice, so there may be a waiting list.

You can find out more about your local hospice from your GP, district nurse or palliative care nurse. Hospice UK also has useful information about hospices and where they are across the UK. You can search for hospices in your area. Marie Curie also has more information on hospice care.

If you are not sure about hospice care, you can ask to visit a hospice. The staff can show you around and talk through any questions or concerns you have.

If you have been in and out of hospital over the last few months, you may want to go back there when you need full-time nursing care. This might be easier to arrange if you have been in a small local hospital rather than a district general or teaching hospital.

Although many people die in hospital, it is not always a peaceful place to be. Often your care has to fit into the ward routine. This means you may not always be looked after in the way that you would like.

If you are in hospital, a palliative care team may be able to see you and be involved in your care. They can help manage your symptoms and offer you and your family emotional support.