Interestingly, physical symptoms don’t even rank among the top three reasons people request MAiD. The leading concern is the “loss of ability to engage in meaningful activities,” followed by the “loss of ability to perform activities of daily living” (such as bathing, eating, toileting, and mobility). The third most cited reason is a “loss of dignity,” with “inadequate control of pain” coming in a distant fourth.

This is Part 2 of our series where we explain Quebec's new law allowing Advance Requests for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). Part 1 explored the similarities and differences between Advance Requests for MAiD, general Advance Directives, and the Waiver of Final Consent. We recommend you give that a quick read here so you can understand the important differences, including why Advance Requests are needed.

In this two-part series, we will explain Quebec's new law allowing Advance Requests for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). Part one will explore the similarities and differences between Advance Requests for MAiD, general Advance Directives, and the Waiver of Final Consent to help clarify what an Advance Request is (and isn't).