S4E30 - Encore Episode: Understanding VSED (Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking) with Judith Schwarz

In this Encore episode, Claire O’Berry speaks with Judith Schwartz, former Clinical Director of End of Life Choices New York, about VSED: Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking. This conversation offers a grounded look at what VSED involves, what supports are essential for comfort and safety, and why some people explore VSED when other end-of-life options are not available or accessible. Judith also discusses advance directive considerations, including documents designed to guide feeding decisions if a person later loses capacity. Resources mentioned End of Life Choices New York: VSED information and education Dementia Advance Directive and “Minimal Comfort Feeding” option Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking: A Compassionate, Widely Available Option for Hastening Death (Oxford University Press), edited by Timothy E. Quill, Paul T. Menzel, Thaddeus Pope, and Judith Schwarz Listener care note: This episode discusses end-of-life decision-making. If you feel distressed or at risk, please pause and contact local crisis supports or emergency services.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.