Conversations about death & dying
2nd April 2025
Researchers have carried out a study of advance care planning (ACP) practice to explore the impact of advance care planning on individuals with incurable life-limiting illnesses.
The researchers looked at how these conversations can be a conduit between clinicians and patients. ACP discussions are designed to help patients with advanced illnesses plan future care and support. This study examines how these discussions influence patients’ thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
The researchers carried out semi structured qualitative interviews with 20 adult aged 30 – 93 receiving hospice care, with both cancer (15) and non-cancer (5) diagnoses. The framework analysis was supported by reflective journaling and coding discussions.
The researchers found that ACP discussions evoke a range of emotions, from procedural to profound. Patients feel empowered and confident, promoting openness with relatives. The discussions encouraged patients to make the most of their remaining time, and helped some patients come to terms with their mortality. The researchers noticed that responses vary based on personal experiences, personalities and life circumstances and that discussions reveal the complexity of living with terminal illness.
The researchers concluded that ACP is more than documenting end of life care preferences – it empowers patients and aids an acceptance of mortality. The researchers suggest that clinicians should focus on the holistic impact of ACP rather than just procedural outcomes.
Eason RJ, Brighton LJ, Koffman J, Bristowe K. Coming to terms with dying: Advance care planning as a conduit between clinicians, patients, and conversations about death and dying – a qualitative interview study. Palliat Med. 2025 Mar;39(3):425-436. doi: 10.1177/02692163251318907. Epub 2025 Feb 19. PMID: 39968906.