Dealing with the unspeakable: living independently, being treated self-determined and dying self-determined?

Many people find it difficult to deal with their own end of life. At first glance, the topic seems bulky and almost inappropriate, especially in times when health seems stable and life is on a regular basis. the idea of openly asking what wishes when you come together with the mother or other close relativesAnd ideas they have for their last phase of life often triggers discomfort. It seems almost unimaginable to interrupt familiar conversations with questions that lead so deep into the most intimate and vulnerable of human existence. Nevertheless, it is precisely this irritation that paves the way for a necessary discussion, because the suppression of existential topics createsLong view of uncertainty and carries the risk of being unprepared at crucial moments.

Why the conversation about the lifetime is indispensable

The emotional seriousness of such conversations tempts you to keep putting them off. But behind the silence is a problem that can have serious consequences in an emergency. In acute medical situations, in which those affected can no longer speak for themselves, doctors are forced to make decisions. without clear indications or ordersAs a rule, take extensive treatment measures because you are responsible for not taking any risks. In most cases, however, there is a lack of written declarations of intent or living wills that are formulated with sufficient precision, which reflect the individual situation and have legal and medical status. Even if there is a living will, it happensIt is not uncommon for her to remain too imprecise or to prove unhelpful in the specific situation. This creates a gray area in which therapeutic measures often go beyond what the person concerned would have wished for.

The gap between knowledge in everyday life and knowledge about existential desires

In everyday life, people know a surprising amount about their loved ones: favorite foods, habits at breakfast or the preferred genre of music are often known. But when it comes to the really crucial questions – whether someone would like intensive treatment in the event of a serious illness, what ideas of dying exist or which rituals and wishes are important for one’s own burialare – there is usually silence. The reasons range from insecurity to fear to the desire not to burden life with gloomy thoughts. This creates a paradoxical situation: The deepest care is not in avoiding, but in actively speaking about these topics. Only through openness and mutual listening can relatives and friends in an emergency in the sense ofAffected person and enable her to end her life with dignity.

The responsibility to act with foresight

The idea that serious situations can suddenly and without preparation can occur is scary. Nevertheless, it is advisable to overcome this fear and take responsibility. Anyone who now has conversations creates orientation and clarity – for themselves and for the people who are close to them. It’s not just about making decisions in the event of a serious illnessor of dying, but also to formulate the possibility of desires that go beyond purely medical. Perhaps it is about wanting to know certain people at the side, listening to music or experiencing certain rituals. Such details can give comfort at the crucial moment and make the farewell more personal and dignified.

Warning of the consequences of repression

Experience shows that the suppression of difficult issues in many areas of life leads to insecurities and problems. Anyone who fails to deal with their own end of life in good time risks being in critical situations without orientation and without support. Responsibility for oneself and others is an act of love and care that is far beyond themerely writing documents. It means giving yourself and the people in your own environment clarity and thus laying the foundation for a self-determined, dignified end of life. This is the only way to avoid unnecessary stress, uncertainties and possibly painful decisions.

A plea for more openness and courage

Dealing with the end of life is a process that requires courage and costs effort. But it is the only way to create security for yourself and others. It is a sign of appreciation and respect not only to be there for each other in everyday life, but also to remain prepared and capable of acting in the most difficult moments. Openness, understanding and aEarly exchange about wishes, fears and expectations contribute to the fact that the end of life is not characterized by uncertainty, but by clarity, dignity and loving care.