Talking about death and dying can feel difficult, but having conversations early can help ensure our wishes, choices and preferences are understood and respected.

OPAAL (The Older People’s Advocacy Alliance) is encouraging people to start these important conversations through its “Is it time for a cuppa?” campaign, which supports older people to prepare for a dignified and autonomous death.

The campaign aims to help people think about what a “good death” means to them, record their wishes and consider who could speak up for them if they were no longer able to communicate their choices. It also recognises that not everyone has family members or trusted friends to turn to for support.

Alongside encouraging people to plan ahead, the campaign provides practical resources to help individuals and those supporting them navigate the administrative and practical challenges that can follow a bereavement.

Starting an important conversation

The campaign offers free posters and practical checklists designed to make these conversations easier to begin. Something as simple as sharing a cuppa can provide an opportunity to talk about future wishes, make plans and ensure important decisions are not left until a crisis occurs.

Planning ahead can help people feel more prepared, give them greater confidence that their wishes will be heard, and help those left behind understand what matters most to them.

At Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire, we believe everyone deserves to have their voice heard and their choices respected when it comes to their health and care. This includes having the opportunity to express their wishes and preferences for the end of their life.

Find out more

OPAAL’s campaign resources, including free posters and practical checklists, are available online.

Visit the OPAAL website: www.opaal.org.uk/campaigns

Taking a little time to talk today could help make a real difference tomorrow — ensuring people’s voices, wishes and choices are heard right to the end of their lives.