ENDING LIFE WELL
For caregivers supporting a loved one through palliative or hospice care, the responsibility is immense. They are providing daily care, emotional support, and advocacy, often while being asked to make complex decisions during moments of deep vulnerability and stress. End-of-Life Planning: An Act of Dignity, for Caregivers and Those They Love
Without a plan, caregivers are often forced into crisis decision-making, balancing medical information, family dynamics, and their own exhaustion. They may be left questioning decisions long after their loved one has passed. Did I do the right thing? Did I honor their wishes? This uncertainty can compound grief and lead to lasting emotional distress. Clear end-of-life planning helps shift these moments from crisis to clarity. It empowers caregivers to advocate with confidence, knowing they are
At its core, end-of-life planning is a shared act of care. It protects dignity, supports caregivers, and it ensures that no one has to navigate one of life’s most difficult moments alone or unprepared. At PCOA, we encourage these conversations not because the end is near, but because dignity, clarity, and caregiver support matter at every stage of aging. ◆ FOR MORE INFORMATION and additional ideas, or to schedule time with our end-of-life care planning team, please call (520) 790-7262.
honoring the expressed values and choices of the person they love, not guessing under pressure. PCOA’s caregiver support work recognizes that caregivers need more than information. They need stability, reassurance, and space to focus on connection rather than constant decision-making. End-of-life planning provides that foundation. It allows caregivers to step
out of the role of coordinator and into the role of spouse, child, sibling, or friend, present, compassionate, and supported. Planning also strengthens communication with palliative and hospice care teams. When goals and values are clear, care can be aligned to prioritize comfort, respect cultural and personal preferences, and reduce unnecessary or unwanted interventions. This alignment supports a more compassionate and coordinated experience for everyone involved.
At Pima Council on Aging (PCOA), we believe aging with dignity is a human right. That belief extends through every stage of life, including the end of life, and to the caregivers who walk alongside their loved ones during this deeply personal journey. End-of-life planning is not simply about completing documents. It is about honoring dignity, autonomy, and peace of mind, for both the person receiving care and the caregiver supporting them.
We are grateful for the generous support provided by the Shaaron Kent Endowment held at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona.
March & April 2026, Never Too Late | Page 15
Pima Council on Aging
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