Being Mortal - Book reviews of Being Mortal

'Being Mortal' book reviews

Review for'Being Mortal'

"Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End" by Atul Gawande is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking exploration of the realities of aging, illness, and death. As a practicing surgeon, Gawande combines his medical expertise with poignant storytelling to address the inadequacies of modern medicine in dealing with end-of-life care. This book is not just a critique of the healthcare system; it is a deeply humanistic look at how we can live better even as we face the inevitability of mortality.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Being Mortal" is Gawande's ability to weave together personal anecdotes, case studies, and historical context to create a comprehensive view of aging and dying. He begins by reflecting on his own experiences with patients and his family, particularly his father, whose decline and eventual death serve as a central narrative thread throughout the book. These personal stories are both heart-wrenching and illuminating, providing a real-world context for the broader issues he discusses.

Gawande delves into the history of how societies have cared for the elderly and dying, showing how the shift from home-based care to institutionalized settings like hospitals and nursing homes has often led to a loss of dignity and autonomy for patients. He argues that the medical community's focus on prolonging life at all costs often comes at the expense of the quality of that life. This is a critical point that Gawande drives home through numerous examples of patients who undergo painful, invasive treatments that offer little benefit in the grand scheme of their remaining time.

The book also tackles the difficult conversations that need to happen between doctors, patients, and families. Gawande stresses the importance of understanding a patient's values and goals rather than making decisions based solely on medical possibilities. He advocates for a more compassionate approach that prioritizes comfort, dignity, and personal preferences. This, he suggests, can lead to more meaningful and satisfying end-of-life experiences.

One of the most powerful sections of the book is Gawande's discussion on assisted living facilities and hospice care. He highlights innovative models that focus on improving the quality of life for residents, such as the Green House Project, which offers a more home-like environment and greater autonomy for its residents. These examples serve as a hopeful counterpoint to the often bleak portrayal of traditional nursing homes and hospitals.

Gawande's writing is clear, empathetic, and accessible. He avoids medical jargon, making the book approachable for a wide audience. His arguments are well-supported by research, and he presents a balanced view that acknowledges the complexities and challenges of changing the current system. "Being Mortal" is not just a call to action for healthcare professionals; it is a guide for anyone who will inevitably face the realities of aging and death, which is to say, all of us.

In conclusion, "Being Mortal" is a profoundly important book that challenges us to rethink how we approach the end of life. It is both a critique of contemporary medicine and a compassionate plea for a more humane approach to aging and dying. Atul Gawande has crafted a work that is as enlightening as it is moving, offering valuable insights that can help us all live better, even as we face the end. This book is essential reading for anyone who cares about the quality of life, not just its duration.

Similar BooksMore