What happens after someone dies?

From It Can't Hurt To Ask · 28:07

Show by Queensland Health

We've learned about what happens when someone is dying, but what comes next?In this episode, we learn about what happens after an expected death in a hospital or home setting. Our host Lauren talks to clinical nurse consultant Dylan from Redcliffe Palliative Care Service about the planning that takes place for after-death care and how his patients and their loved ones are included in the process.Dr Erin and nurse Jane from Metro North Community Palliative Care Service then explain what happens when someone dies in a home setting and why these deaths aren't considered an emergency. And Toowoomba woman Rosita joins us again to tell her story of caring for her mum Johanna at home and the support she continued to receive after Johanna's death.We also talk paperwork, funeral planning and even how pets can be involved in saying their final goodbyes.What will happen to my body after I've died? How long can you keep a loved one at home after they've died? Who needs to sign all the forms? Let's find out.Resources:Talking about death and dying can bring up challenging emotions. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available:Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.Griefline: call 1300 845 745 (9am–6pm, Monday - Friday, 12 noon–6pm weekends).PalAssist has general information and advice about palliative care services in Queensland. Call 1800 772 273 (free for Queensland residents) or chat online (from 7am to 7pm, 7 days).In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).The following services were discussed in the episode or can provide additional information and resources:Care at the end of life is a campaign and resource hub for Queenslanders with information about advance care planning and support for patients, carers and families.The Statewide Office of Advance Care Planning offers free advance care planning information and support for patients, families, carers, and health professionals. Phone: 1300 007 227 or email: [email protected] for aged care services first by applying for an assessment. You can do this through your GP or local health service, online at the My Aged Care website, by calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422, in-person with an Aged Care Specialist Officer at a Services Australia office.Any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person who is 50 and over can access the Elder Care Support program. The program provides support workers who can give you information about aged care and guide you through the process of accessing services.Support is provided for infants, children and young people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their parents, siblings, grandparents, school and community. Learn more via Children’s Health Queensland’s Paediatric Palliative Care Service, reach out to the Children's Health Queensland Bereavement Service via phone: 1800 080 316 or email: [email protected] and rural patients, and their families, can access specialist palliative care services via telehealth. A referral is required from your GP, oncologist, other specialist or community nurse. Care is delivered by Specialist Palliative Rural Telehealth service (SPaRTa).Seniors Enquiry Line is a free, statewide information and referral service for Queensland seniors, families, friends, grandparents and carers. Phone: 1300 135 500 between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.Voluntary assisted dying is one of several choices a person may have at the end of their life. It is important to discuss all options with your doctor. QVAD-Support provides advice and support to Queenslanders. Phone: 1800 431 371 or email: [email protected] Queensland Government provides information about What to do after someone dies including who to tell and what paperwork is needed.Services Australia has information to support you after a person has died on their Death of a loved one page, including information about the order in which to take official steps, which services you need to notify, and support services and payments that may be available.Grief counselling and support has more information about grief and bereavement, including how to seek further support.Disclaimer:The stories and conversations shared by everyone in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

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