EconTalk Lydia Dugdale on the Lost Art of Dying
Jul 17, 2023
Lydia Dugdale, a physician and author of "The Lost Art of Dying," dives into the often-ignored subject of mortality. She advocates for open discussions about death within healthcare to enhance life quality. The talk explores historical views on dying, emphasizing how living well leads to dying well. Dugdale highlights the emotional weight of aging and end-of-life choices, calling for meaningful conversations around patient dignity. Personal anecdotes reflect on legacy and the profound interconnectedness of community, spirituality, and rituals at life's end.
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Unnatural Dying
- As a young doctor, Lydia Dugdale witnessed patients dying in ways that felt unnatural, driven by technology.
- This sparked her quest for a better approach to dying and end-of-life care.
Doctors' Reluctance
- Some doctors avoid discussing death with patients due to their own fear or the perception of medical failure.
- This reluctance hinders open communication about end-of-life preferences.
Family and Death
- Dugdale grew up in a family comfortable discussing death, shaped by her grandfather's near-death experiences.
- This normalized conversations about mortality and end-of-life preparation.
