Research published this week to coincide with Dying Matters Awareness Week found that more than half of British adults who have a partner are unaware of their end of life wishes.
Additionally, only 21% of all adults say that they have discussed their end of life wishes with somebody and just 6% have written down their wishes or preferences about their future care, should they be unable to make decisions for themselves.
In an interview with the Telegraph this week, Richard explained that the couple have agreed to help each other die, should one of them fall seriously ill. Assisted suicide is illegal in the UK, but Richard said he would “do what was right” for his wife and face the consequences.
According to local press, a spokesperson from Saint Francis Hospice said: “We feel very strongly that people should talk about their choices for the end of life, so we’re glad to know that Richard and Judy are having very open discussions about what they both want should the worst happen, and that they have felt able to share those views publicly.”
Adding: “The one thing we can all be sure of is that we will die one day, and it’s a good idea to have discussions with your friends and family about what you want in case you become ill or incapacitated and unable to communicate your wishes.”
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