The goal of this article is to provide occupational therapists in all settings with practical information and useful tools for initiating conversations about planning for the future and teaching patients to look ahead and plan for changes in function.

After you study the information presented here, you will be able to —

• Formulate a conversation with clients and families related to occupations associated with end-of-life care.
• Explain best practice information about health and aging, choices in treatment, burdens and benefits of end-of-life care concerns, hospice and palliative care.
• Understand the role that OTs play to ensure quality of life through meaningful occupations during the remaining days.