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Journal
7
Involve an end-of-life doula
6
Write communication cards
5
Create a comfort box
4
Set specific standards
3
Designate a healthcare proxy
2
ways to prepare for end-of-life care with breast cancer
7
Create a living will
1
Keeping a personal journal during end-of-life care for breast cancer can help people express themselves without fear of judgment.
A journal can be a tool to relieve everyday stress, work through emotions, and reinforce self-encouragement through words or drawings.
For some, journals can be a way to leave behind messages for loved ones.
Journal
End-of-life doulas can offer nonmedical support to improve whole-body well-being.
They are individuals who specialize in emotional, spiritual, and practical care. An end-of-life doula can be a mediator, act as an end-of-life educator, and provide companionship, among many other services.
Involve an end-of-life doula
A 2022 review published in the journal Cancers noted that end-stage cancer in older adults, including breast cancer, often features significant functional decline, such as in the ability to communicate. This directly affects quality of life.
Communication is more than just verbal. When talking is not possible, writing is generally the next substitute. When writing also declines, other communication tools can take its place.
Communication cards are like flashcards with pictures and words to help remove the frustration associated with communication impairment.
Write communication cards
Also known as a comfort kit, the comfort box has traditionally been a hospice tool for keeping small supplies of medications on hand to provide quick relief for end-of-life symptoms. Certain medications, including some for pain or to dry secretions, are only accessible if a person is in a hospice or other healthcare program.
A comfort box does not need to be limited to medications. It can contain anything that relieves distress. This could include family photos, inspiring quotes, favorite scents, and stuffed animals.
Create a comfort box
A person can consider:
They should communicate these things and any other important wishes for the end of their life to their healthcare proxy and other loved ones.
where they want to die
their preference between hospice care at home or in a facility
who they want by their side
if other visitors are allowed
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Set specific standards
The second part of an advance directive is a document called a durable power of attorney for healthcare, which names a person as a healthcare proxy. This individual can make all healthcare decisions on behalf of someone if they become unable to do so.
A person should choose a healthcare proxy they trust to fulfill their wishes. They should also be someone who is comfortable navigating discussions about breast cancer with healthcare professionals.
Designate a healthcare proxy
Many legal documents are necessary at the end of life, but a living will is an important tool a person should not overlook. It is one part of an advance directive — a legal outline of what to do with medical care when a person cannot make those decisions.
A living will sets guidelines for the care, services, and accommodations expected during a person’s last days. They include instructions on topics such as life support systems and resuscitation preferences.
Living wills are advocacy documents that can bring peace of mind.
Create a living will
