Dying Matters Awareness Week runs from 4 to 10 May. People across Northern Ireland are encouraged to hold open conversations about future care, dying, death and bereavement with family and close contacts.

Lack of understanding about illness and caring for those who are dying leads many to struggle with coping. Individuals often hold specific preferences for how and where they wish to die, along with arrangements for after death.

Fear of the topic or concern about distressing others prevents some from sharing these preferences. Without such discussions, those wishes may go unmet, leaving families to face difficult decisions alone.

Certain practical matters require attention now, before time becomes short. Honest talks ensure end-of-life preferences are known and followed, while aiding loved ones during bereavement.

Simple steps exist to improve the end-of-life experience. Early discussions about death do not hasten it but allow planning for this inevitable event.