Gradual Dying and End-of-Life Care, Part 1

The Bible says in John 11:25-26: "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"

The featured quote for this episode is from Anaïs Nin. She said, "People living deeply have no fear of death."

Our topic for today is titled "Gradual Dying and End-of-Life Care (Part 1)" from the book, "The Art of Dying: Living Fully into the Life to Come" by Rob Moll. And, I want to remind you to take advantage of our special offer. If you enjoy this podcast, please feel free to purchase a copy of this book -- "The Art of Dying" by Rob Moll. It is available on our website for just $20. 

While 20th-century medicine drastically changed how we die, it has also had a more subtle — but no less profound — effect. Because of modern medicine, dying often takes a long time. One study found that most elderly are diagnosed as having a disease three years before it will eventually end their lives. On top of that a Rand study found that “Americans will usually spend two or more of their final years disabled enough to need someone else to help with routine activities of daily living because of chronic illness.” Long before we are visiting loved ones on their deathbed, we may be helping them cook, clean and use the bathroom. 

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