The day itself
What people often choose, and how it goes.
When the day comes, it is the person's choice how, where and with whom. Most VAD deaths in Australia happen at home, with a small number of loved ones present, in a setting the person has chosen.
Where
Most people choose to be at home. Some choose a hospice, a hospital room, a holiday home, a garden, a beach. Some hospitals and aged care providers permit VAD on their premises; some do not. Your VAD navigator can help you understand what is possible.
Who is there
Most people choose to have a small number of loved ones present. Some want a partner, some want children, some want a dear friend, some want to be alone with the medical team. Whatever the person wants is right.
Setting the room
People often choose music, particular flowers, a familiar blanket, a photograph in view, candles, certain food or drink beforehand. Some have a small ceremony or prayer. Some keep it very quiet. There is no script.
What usually happens
In most cases the person takes (or is given) the medication, falls into a deep sleep within a few minutes, and dies peacefully a short time later. People who are present often describe it as gentler than they had feared.
Your medical team will explain what to expect at every step. You can ask any question, however small.
Afterwards
In Australia, VAD deaths are not reported to the Coroner — they are recorded as deaths by the underlying terminal illness. You can spend time with the body afterwards, just as you would with any home death. Funeral arrangements proceed in the usual way.
See all 53 guides in Care & end of life →
From bluetulipco.com/library/end-of-life/the-day — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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