Death and the elderly Flashcards
What is passive euthanasia?
When no action is taken to prolong or end life.
What is death?
End of life. (Buddhist)
When the body no longer breaths, the heart stops beating and the brain stops functioning.
End of physical and mental life.
When the soul leaves body (Christian belief)
What’s involuntary euthanasia?
When the person has no part in the decision-making process to end their life.
What’s active euthanisia?
Deliberate action is taken to end life.
Voluntary euthanisia?
When a person requests death and is helped to die.
List four points “for” euthanisia.
People have a right to decide when they want to die.
It’s wrong to keep people alive beyond their natural life span.
It gives people the ability to die with dignity.
Relatives don’t have to see loved ones suffer a slow and painful death.
List four points “against” euthanasia.
A person may commit euthanasia against a
person’s will.
People may end up recovering from an illness against all the odds.
Sanctity of Life.
Doctors’ job is to try and save and protect life, not kill it.
Christian thoughts against euthanasia.
“Do not kill” - Ten Commandments.
God has fixed how long people are to live.
Suffering strengthens faith and is there for a purpose, part of God’s plan.
Shows a lack of faith in God.
Christian thoughts in support of euthanasia.
Will help to stop extreme suffering.
Buddhists thoughts on euthanasia.
It is wrong. A person must endure their suffering so that Karma will be removed. The person who performs euthanasia would be committing murder and causing bad karma for themselves.
What is a life support machine?
A machine which keeps people alive when they would otherwise have died.
What’s the Hospice Movement?
Provides care for people who are dying.
Pain relief is given so the patient feels no pain the end of their life.
Emotional help is also given.
Help families cope with the death of a loved one.
List 3 problems faced by the elderly.
Ageism – A term to describe prejudice or discrimination against someone on the basis of age.
Elderly people are often stereotyped as moaning about the young, unhappy or unable to look after themselves. However, they may also be seen as wise, caring and full of practical skills (such as being able to mend things).
The young do not respect the elderly and take everything for granted.
What is meant by the “Generation Gap”?
The ‘Generation Gap’ is the gap between old and young. This can be in terms of fashion, styles and interests as well attitudes towards morals and behaviour. This gap often leads to mis-understandings.
Who should care for the elderly?
They can live alone at home. This gives independence, but also means they could have accidents or be lonely.
They could live with the family (the ‘extended family). The grandparents live with their children and grandchildren. However, this could lead to cramped conditions.
