the death a person would choose if given the opportunity. The concept draws attention to the differing needs and values of individuals in the terminal phase of life and challenges the assumption that a good death has the same meaning for all people. Palliative care, especially as given in hospices, attempts to protect individuality and offers a communication process and caring environment to provide the maximum possible opportunity for the dying person to make personally meaningful decisions. [introduced by U.S. psychiatrist Avery D. Weisman]