Conversation starter checklist
Prepare for a useful first conversation without trying to solve everything in one sitting.
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Before you begin4 items
During the conversation4 items
Afterward4 items
General guidance, not legal or medical advice. For decisions about care, treatment or documents, talk with a qualified professional.
When you want a professional in the room
Some of these go better with help. These are the people families usually call.
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More on Plan ahead- Guide
How to start an end-of-life conversation
A calm, practical way to begin talking about wishes without demanding every answer at once.
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Asking a parent about their wishes
Words for a first conversation about care wishes, and what to say if it doesn’t go the way you hoped.
- Guide · Coming soon
When your parent doesn’t want to talk about it
What to do when the first try goes badly, and how to come back to it.