#037-  Have you had an end of life conversation with a loved one? What feelings came up for when you read this? Fear? Sadness? Longing? Remorse? Naturally, when we experience these feelings, we often want to run from them, rather than toward them.  But, did you know that when we actually pursue end of life conversations with our loved ones, it actually does more good than harm.  Research shows that end-of-life conversations lead to improved mental health and better-quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Here's how:The person dying reports relief and less distress after talking with their loved ones about end of life wishesWhen there is a meaningful conversation about end-of-life choices, survivors report feeling less guilt and less depression and having an easier process of grieving.  Now that you know end of life conversations can be helpful, in this podcast episode, I interview Patty Webster, lead of community engagement for The Conversation Project, a public engagement initiative to ensure everyone’s wishes for care through the end-of-life are both expressed and respected Here's a peak inside my interview with Conversation Project's Patty Webster:[06:55] Patty shares the touching story of how the Conversation Project got started.[09:55] Discover the many benefits of having conversations about end of life wishes. [20:56] The Conversation Project is helping healthcare institutions to be "conversation ready". Learn more here. [23:51] The Conversation Project has created many free tools to help families start end of life conversations. See which tool is right for you.[31:35] It's okay to change your end of life wishes. The Conversation Project shows us how. [41:03] "A place of love" is a great place to start when embarking on end of life conversations. Learn more tips for starting this conversation. [47:40] Are you a professional? You have an important role to play. Learn more here. Click to the show notes page, here. Interested in working with me? Learn more hereJoin the movement to de-stigmatize mental health for older adults: With the Psychology of Aging podcast, my mission is to de-stigmatize mental health for older adults, to improve access to mental health care for older adults, and to create a space that is inclusive of all older adults. You can help by sharing episodes, and subscribing to the podcast. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Then, leave a review. Your review will help other people find this podcast.To leave a review, simply:1. Click here2. Scroll down to "Ratings and Reviews" 3. Tap or click "Write a Review"I read them all. Thank you!