Medicine has triumphed in our time, turning the terrible dangers of childbirth, injury, and disease into manageable problems. But when it comes to the inevitable realities of aging and death, what medicine does is often the opposite of what it should do.
Atul Gawande, a practicing surgeon, reviews the limitations and disabilities of medicine when death looms. And he discovers how things can be done better.
“We believe that medicine is about ensuring health and survival. But in reality, it is much more than that. Because those who suffer a serious illness have other priorities, apart from prolonging their life. Her main concerns include avoiding suffering, strengthening ties with family and friends, being mentally aware, not being a burden to others, and coming to feel that her life is complete. People want to share their memories, pass on their wisdom and personal belongings, mend relationships, establish their legacies, and make sure the people they leave behind are going to be okay. Our technological healthcare system has totally failed to meet those needs. "
Being Mortal, a gripping and humane book, shows that the goal is not a good death but a good life from start to finish. And it teaches us how to make sure we never sacrifice what people really care about.