Being Mortal

Being Mortal

7/1/2016

link

https://openlibrary.org/books/OL26453003M

summary

In his latest book, bestselling author and practicing surgeon Atul Gawande investigates the ultimate limitation of medicine: how to improve not just life, but the inevitability of its ending. Gawande takes readers on a journey to explore the problematic aspects where modern medicine fails to serve its patients sufficiently. With an eye-opening blend of research and storytelling, Gawande brings forth a compelling argument that in the face of aging and death, medicine can and should prioritize the quality of one's life over any other interests. Nursing homes and hospitals struggle to balance the patients' safety with their emotional needs, while doctors continue to carry out life-prolonging treatments that only cause more pain and suffering. Gawande offers new models of care that can help people live their last few months/days with dignity and peace. Being Mortal is a must-read for anyone who has ever grappled with end-of-life decisions for themselves or their loved ones, offering comfort, insight, and wisdom for us all.

tags

life and death ꞏ hospice ꞏ ethics ꞏ mortality ꞏ quality of life ꞏ dying ꞏ cultural anthropology ꞏ nursing homes ꞏ nonfiction ꞏ social sciences ꞏ atul gawande ꞏ elder care ꞏ palliative care ꞏ medicine ꞏ healthcare ꞏ family ꞏ terminal illness ꞏ caregiving ꞏ end of life ꞏ aging