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Being Mortal
304 pages, 2017
Atul Gawande's New York Times bestseller, now a major motion picture: Medicare and Medicaid are saving seniors from the misery of incontinence and nursing homes, but have become too big for their britches. Gawande portrays surgical residents as the Millennial generation—our country's most educated and least appreciated workers.
As in his previous New York Times bestsellers, he weaves fascinating stories drawn from his time as a surgeon in Brigham and Women's Hospital's cancer ward with cogent discussions of recent medical research to explore the state of medicine today.
Dedicated above all to safety, healthcare providers battle patients over the food they're allowed to eat and the choices they're allowed to make. Poorly-paid docs fall back on false hopes and substandard care that is actually shortening lives instead of improving them.
Atul Gawande challenges the traditional view of medicine in 'Being Mortal'. He argues that the main goal of medicine should not only be to ensure health and survival, but also to improve the quality of life, especially for the elderly and those with serious, life-limiting illnesses.
In 'Being Mortal', Gawande emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy. He believes that patients should have the right to make their own decisions about their care, even if it means accepting less medical intervention. This approach respects the individual's values and desires, leading to a more dignified and meaningful life.
Gawande explores the role of palliative care in 'Being Mortal'. He suggests that this type of care, which focuses on relieving suffering and improving quality of life, should be integrated into the treatment of serious illnesses. This approach can help patients live their final days with dignity and comfort.
In 'Being Mortal', Gawande acknowledges the limitations of modern medicine. He points out that while medical advancements can prolong life, they often fail to improve or even maintain the quality of life. This insight encourages us to rethink our approach to end-of-life care.
Gawande stresses the need for honest conversations about death in 'Being Mortal'. He believes that discussing our fears and hopes for the end of life can help us make informed decisions and live our final days according to our own values and preferences.
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Being Mortal is a clear-eyed, informative exploration of what growing old means in the 21st century. A book I'd recommend for readers of all ages.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderBeing Mortal is a masterful exploration of aging, death, and the medical profession's mishandling of both. A must-read.
Malcolm Gladwell - Bestselling AuthorBeing Mortal is a profound and poignant examination of the complex systems of aging and dying in America.
Ken Burns - Documentary FilmmakerBeing Mortal is a powerful and compassionate book. It's a game-changer in our society's approach to aging and end-of-life care.
Anne Lamott - Inspirational AuthorBeing Mortal is a deeply moving, exquisitely observed examination of life, death, medicine, and what matters in the end.
Oliver Sacks - Neurologist, Author