Being Mortal by Atul Gawande - Book Summary: Medicine and What Matters in the End

"Being Mortal" by Atul Gawande : Book Summary

Note – This is an audiobook summary of the following book:

Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End

by Atul Gawande

About

Atul Gawande is a surgeon who explores the inevitable process of aging and ultimately death, and takes a critical look at how the medical profession does not yet have a firm grip on how to handle these processes well. He explores the birth of nursing homes, independent and assisted living facilities, and the various roles modern Hospice programs can play to support those nearing the end of their lives. Gawande shares several stories of those who were adeptly aided through the process of growing frail as well as those were not so lucky. Finally, Gawande shares what he has learned about how each of us should approach our mortality as well as that of those we love.

Here’s what you’ll learn about in this summary:

- The history of homes for the aging from traditional nursing homes to modern independent living facilities.

- Three questions that every dying person should be asked and contemplate.

- The benefits of aiming for total wellness rather than only safety and survival when confronted with the complications of old age or terminal illness.