Knowing the terms -
“End-of-life care” is the broad umbrella term. It includes everything that happens when someone is nearing death - medical care, emotional support, spiritual care, family decisions, palliative care, hospice, and sometimes MAID.
“Palliative care” is a type of end-of-life care - it focuses specifically on comfort, dignity, and symptom management, rather than curing illness. It can start well before the very end of life.
“Comfort care” is often used interchangeably with palliative care, especially in long-term care homes or hospitals, but it tends to describe the final stage of care - when the goal is purely to keep someone comfortable, not to extend life.
End-of-Life, Palliative, Comfort Care - Whatever You Call It, Here’s How to Talk About It in Long-Term Care
These conversations are never easy, but being clear with doctors, nurses, and care staff helps ensure your loved one’s final days reflect their wishes, not just medical habit.
1. Talk early, not in crisis.
If your loved one is in a nursing home or has a chronic illness, discuss what “comfort care” or “Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)” means before an emergency. You can always revisit the plan later.
2. Be honest about quality of life.
Ask what matters most: more time, more comfort, or being surrounded by family. The answer will guide future choices.
3. Say it plainly.
Use clear language with staff:
“If Mom becomes seriously ill, we want her to be kept comfortable, not sent to hospital.”
“We understand what DNR means, and that’s what she would want.”
This removes guesswork and helps everyone stay on the same page.
4. Ask what support exists.
Many homes have palliative or comfort care programs that offer pain control, help with anxiety or breathing, and emotional support for families.
5. Put it in writing.
Document the plan - through an advance directive, DNR form, or care plan note - so it’s honoured even if you can’t be there.
When families talk early and clearly, decisions come from love, not panic. And when staff know the plan, the end of life can be what it should be: peaceful, dignified, and as drama-free as possible.
**Some people, facing unbearable suffering or terminal illness, may choose Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) as part of their end-of-life journey. It’s a personal decision, guided by law, compassion, and careful medical review. While this page focuses on comfort and palliative care, you can learn more about MAID - including eligibility and support - at https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-services-benefits/medical-assistance-dying.htmlWrite your text here...