Learn · 6 min read

What VSED is, and what it isn’t

Voluntarily stopping eating and drinking, or VSED, is when a person who has the ability to make their own medical decisions makes a deliberate choice to stop all food and fluids so that death can come naturally, usually because of serious illness and suffering.

It rests on a right that has long been recognized: a capable adult can refuse food, fluids, and medical treatment. Because of that, VSED is broadly understood to be legal across the United States. It doesn’t require a special law, a six-month prognosis, or a prescription.

An honest note: facilities differ. Some skilled-nursing facilities will not support a VSED plan. It’s worth confirming with the specific place of care.