Shocking study finds parents more willing to talk about drugs, sex than end of life decision-making

A new national survey indicates thatAmericans are more likely to talk with their children about drug use orsex than with a seriously ill parent about their end-of-lifewishes. The survey, completed by more than 2,300 individuals, wasconducted in conjunction with the first National Healthcare DecisionsDay (NHDD), April 16, 2008. “The survey highlights the need formore attention to advance care planning, which is why NationalHealthcare Decisions Day is so important,” said Nathan A. Kottkamp,chair of the National Healthcare Decision Day initiative.  “Americanshave made such wonderful progress expanding the dialogue about drugsand sex with their children, yet we still struggle when it comes totalking about something that happens to every one of us – dying.”  Survey respondents would, however, want to talk to others if they were living with a serious illness.  “This disconnect between awillingness to talk about one’s own end-of-life care and talking toothers about their illness illustrates one of the reasons why advancecare planning is not more prevalent,” remarked Kathy Brandt, vicepresident of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization anda member of the NHDD executive committee.