Book summary of Being Mortal by Atul Gawande
Being Mortal is a thought-provoking book by Atul Gawande that explores the challenges and complexities of aging and dying in modern society. It examines the medicalization of aging and the need to rethink how we approach end-of-life care and support for the elderly.
The book is targeted at anyone interested in the topic of aging and end-of-life care, from healthcare professionals to family members of the elderly. It offers insights and practical advice for navigating the difficult decisions and conversations that come with aging and dying.
Being Mortal was first published in 2014 and quickly became a bestseller. It has received widespread praise for its honest and compassionate approach to a sensitive and often taboo topic.
The book is based on Gawande's experiences as a surgeon and his conversations with patients and their families. It examines the ways in which our healthcare system often fails to provide adequate care and support for the elderly, and offers a vision for a more humane and compassionate approach.
Gawande argues that the medicalization of aging has led to a narrow focus on extending life at all costs, often at the expense of quality of life. He advocates for a more patient-centered approach that prioritizes the patient's values and goals, rather than simply treating their medical conditions.
The book also explores the challenges of providing care for the elderly and the importance of maintaining autonomy and dignity. Gawande discusses the various options available for end-of-life care, from hospice care to palliative care to assisted suicide.
Being Mortal is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to readers of all levels of knowledge. It uses real-life examples and personal anecdotes to illustrate its points, making it a compelling and memorable read.
The book is not just a critique of the healthcare system, but also offers practical advice for individuals and families facing the challenges of aging and dying. It provides a framework for having difficult conversations with loved ones and making decisions about end-of-life care.
The book is a call to action for society to rethink its approach to aging and dying, and to prioritize quality of life and dignity in our care of the elderly. It challenges readers to consider their own values and goals for their later years, and to advocate for a more humane and compassionate approach to end-of-life care.
In conclusion, Being Mortal is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges readers to rethink their approach to aging and dying. It offers insights and practical advice for navigating the challenges of end-of-life care, and advocates for a more patient-centered and compassionate approach. By reading this book, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the elderly and their families, and can be inspired to take action to create a more humane and dignified approach to end-of-life care.
The book is a testament to Gawande's compassion and empathy, as well as his commitment to improving the healthcare system. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the topic of aging and end-of-life care, and is sure to inspire meaningful conversations and positive change in society.
Details of e-book Being Mortal
- Author(s): Atul Gawande
- Title: Being Mortal
- Rating: 4.8 out of 5 base on 18711 reviews
- Publisher: Picador; Reprint edition (September 5, 2017)
- ISBN-10: 1250076226
- ISBN-13: 9781250076229
- Language: English
- Print length: 304 pages
- Categories: Medical Books
