In What Dying People Want, Kuhl comments, “Dying involves a choice” (xviii). People choose what to wear, what to do and what they will eat on a daily basis. Choosing how, when and why sick people die is a daily decision for them. This, however, has not been accomplished by some individuals in this country. Americans have the right to choose. When a patient communicates a desire to die, scrutiny of the acceptability of palliative care begins immediately. Inspections include assessment of pain management, depression, anxiety, family burnout, spirituality, and other observed issues (Baird and Rosenbaum 100). When working with or living with an older person, never ignore the words “I want to die.” If this is ignored, that person will not receive the wishes they deserve. Countries are starting to understand that people should be able to die if they wish: “In the United States, there are assisted dying laws reserved for terminally ill patients and mentally competent adults” (Firth). The assisted dying law is only valid in Oregon, Montana, Washington, Vermont and California. These are five states out of fifty. This law must be extended to all fifty states because all individuals are entitled to this law. In 2013, Vermont passed an “end-of-life choices” bill. This bill allows terminally ill patients to obtain
tags