Legacy building

People facing the end of life are challenged to cope with a myriad of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and medical changes, and many consider questions regarding life's ultimate purpose more intently during this time. Despite recognition that this can be an important area for intervention, many health professionals lack confidence when working with the dying. This article examines "conscious legacy building" as an end-of-life intervention. Patients who are contemplating end-of-life issues may be seeking direction as they navigate this unfamiliar terrain. Work around the creation of lasting and personally meaningful memories is valued by the dying person as well as later, by the bereaved. Clinical examples illustrate how the concept of intentional legacy building promotes a sense of self-efficacy and empowerment and offers the opportunity for innovative interventions that create lasting memories.