What is a preferred place of care and how can I choose it?

There are various settings where end-of-life care can be provided. A preferred place of care is the setting within which someone would most like to be cared for.

The options can include:

• the person's own home,
• a hospice facility,
• a nursing home,
• a hospital.

Choosing a preferred place of care is a deeply personal decision and depends on factors such as;  medical condition, the level of support available at home and personal preferences for the environment they feel most comfortable in.

A person may want to be close to their family in a familiar environment whereas others feel more comfortable surrounded by doctors and nurses. Some may need more care than possible at home to keep them comfortable and safe so this should be considered. Have open and honest conversations to understand their preferences and discuss their comfort, values, and desires for the type of care they would like to receive.

Consider these priorities when exploring and discussing the place of care:

• Being pain and symptom-free,
• The importance of feeling independent,
• Having constant access to care staff,
• Being with friends and family or having them near,
• Being in a familiar place,
• Being in their own home,
• The practicality of providing care within each environment.

It is normal for people to change their minds about their preferred place of care, and their wishes should always be discussed. As a person's needs change or their condition progresses, they may want or need different things from the original plan. In this case, let the healthcare team know early so they can reassess needs, and plans can be put in place.