Many people will have a preference for where they would wish to die. Some people prefer to be in a hospital or hospice. Others wish to die at home in familiar surroundings and in the company of their family. One of you may have strong views, making the decision easier. If the person with cancer is not clear with what they would like, it may be good to discuss it now to avoid any regrets later.
If the person you care for wishes to die at home, find out what the specialist palliative care services in your area have to offer. Some provide medications, equipment, and support for you. It can be exhausting caring for someone at the end of life and it is important to take on as much help as possible. If other friends and family are available it can work well to have a roster between you so you still get some rest.
Some people do not wish to die at home, especially if there are young children in the home or family members who may find it difficult to live there afterwards. If so, the person you care for may be admitted to hospital or a palliative care unit (hospice) for the last days or weeks of their life. Often, it is still possible for carers to remain with the patient continuously for the last hours or days of their life in hospital or hospice. Your health providers will be able to give you more information on your options locally and they will try to arrange admission close to your home to avoid lengthy travel times.
Practicalities
Whether a person dies at home, in a hospice or in hospital, there will be support for the carer afterwards. It may be helpful to contact a funeral director ahead of time. They can give you guidance about what happens after a death and the person you care for may wish to be involved with some planning.
If the person you are caring for dies at home you can call their health professionals in the community, for example community palliative care service or GP. There is no need to do this immediately if you want to wait for a couple of hours. The palliative care support will be able to talk to you about what to do at this time.