Family Communication

Some families talk openly with each other but this is not true of all families. This is not easily changed, especially when someone is dying.

The way in which families are made up nowadays can make communication more difficult. People do not always live close to each other geographically. Divorce and remarriage create new families that may have different communication needs and patterns.

If relationships have been difficult in the past, or if new relationships are fragile, problems may get worse at such an emotional time. Family members can have different views. There may be long standing differences. All of this can cause conflict, perhaps as it always has done.

Occasionally people will make moves to reconnect with family members, former partners or friends at this time. This can bring its own difficulties but also often great rewards and peace of mind.

Communication can be difficult but not impossible. Decide ways in which family members can best talk with each other. Important information will need to be shared with everyone.

Resources

The Cancer Council of Australia has a website with information on dealing with family
The Better Health Channel has a fact sheet on relationships and communication
Cancer Connections has a page on talking about dying.

This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011
Last updated 3 June 2009