Reactions to Engage with Grace
Watching Alexandra Drane’s TEDMED talk about the “Engage with Grace” initiative was a profound experience. It forces individuals to confront the inevitable reality of death and dying, a subject many of us instinctively shy away from. The five questions posed are thought-provoking, prompting introspection not only on our mortality but also on how we wish to navigate the final chapter of our lives. In a world where medical interventions can keep us from dying longer than before, it is crucial to consider what quality of life means to us personally and how that should inform our end-of-life decisions.
Comfort Level in Discussing Death and Dying
Discussing death and dying can be discomforting, even taboo, in certain cultures. Personally, I find it easier to discuss with family members than with strangers, given the emotional intimacy and shared understanding that exists within a family. However, discussing it with current or future clients, particularly in a professional setting, may pose difficulties owing to the delicate and intimate character of the subject matter. Nevertheless, it is an important conversation that should not be avoided.
Enhancing Comfort in Conversations About Death
As a society, we can improve how comfortable we feel discussing death and dying by fostering open dialogue and encouraging education on the topic. Greater exposure to the subject through mediums like literature, film, and public discussions can help normalize the conversation (Zastrow, 2019). Moreover, we can benefit from comprehending different cultural and religious perspectives on death as they often provide a framework for navigating this complex issue. In terms of practical measures, healthcare professionals can play a significant role in facilitating these discussions. They can actively encourage patients and their families to engage in advance care planning, including discussions about living wills, healthcare proxies, and advanced directives (Trabsky, 2022). This not only prepares individuals and families for the end of life but also ensures that medical care aligns with the patient’s wishes.
References
Trabsky, M. (2022). Normalising death in the time of a pandemic. Oñati Socio-Legal Series, 12(3), 540-555.
Zastrow, C., Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hessenauer, S. L. (2019). Empowerment series: understanding human behavior and the social environment. Cengage Learning.
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