Chapter 7: Preparing for a medically assisted death

When the plan changes

The expert says
Tara Noble MSW, RSW explains that MAID plan may change and to have a conversation when you know a definitive decision has been made(3:22)Video transcript


For various reasons, not everyone who requests and is approved for a medically assisted death will die this way.

  • They might change their mind. The person can change their mind at any time, including right before being given the medication. 
  • As the person gets closer to dying, they may find that their symptoms are well controlled, and they are no longer suffering to the extent they want an assisted death. They may die from their illness before the assisted death can happen. 

Let children know about these possibilities in advance.