Handbook for Mortals

This book is addressed to all those who wish to approach the final years of life with greater awareness of what to expect and greater confidence about how to make the end of their lives a time of growth, comfort and meaningful reflection.

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Modern medical technology has changed not only the way we live but also the way we die. Until two generations ago, people usually died suddenly, after an accident or serious illness. Now, most of us may expect our dying to take longer, to require more care, and to demand more forethought than ever before. This book is addressed to all those who wish to approach the final years of life with greater awareness of what to expect and greater confidence about how to make the end of our lives a time of growth, comfort and meaningful reflection. Written by Dr. Joanne Lynn and a team of physicians, this book provides equal measures of practical information and wise counsel. Readers will learn what decisions they will need to face; what choices are available to them; where to look for help; how to ease pain and other symptoms; what to expect with specific diseases; how the health-care system operates; and how the entire experience affects dying persons, their families, and their friends. This book is intended for the general reader and professionals working with the terminally ill.