Three questions

Tackle one or more of the following questions and then return to Step 2.

A. Ask one or more members of the medical team: “Would you be surprised if [name of your loved one] died within the next three months [or 30 days]?”

* Have a discussion about the answer they give. A short remaining life expectancy (three months or less) suggests it’s time to make the switch to pursue peace. *
or
B. Ask one or more members of the medical team about life expectancy if you see one or more of these signs which can be indications that a person has 30 days or less to live:

  • No longer able to swallow safely.
  • No longer eating or interested in eating.
  • Sleeps most of the time.
  • Kidney patient has stopped dialysis.
  • Sees or converses with persons or pets who are not present.
  • Hands, arms, feet, legs now cold, purplish or blotchy.

* Have a discussion about the answer they give. A short remaining life expectancy suggests it’s time to make the switch to pursue peace.*
or
C. Gather information about the situation. Ask yourself: If [name of your loved one] could view their situation right now, would [name of your loved one] choose continued or additional medical treatment or choose to switch to peace?

* Be guided by your knowledge of the situation and by your knowledge of the person you love and their wishes and values.*

Tackle one or more of the above questions and then return to Step 2.