Gawande states, pg. 22, ‘There remains one problem with this way of living.’ What does he mean by ‘this way of living’? Describe the problem he references here? • Do your views and experiences of Independence differ from Gawande or are they similar? Explain. • Gawande spends an entire chapter on the topic ‘Things Fall Apart’. Do your views and experiences differ from Gawande or are they similar? Explain.
In his book “Being Mortal,” Atul Gawande discusses various aspects of aging, mortality, and the challenges individuals face in maintaining independence. On page 22 of the book, Gawande states, “There remains one problem with this way of living.” By “this way of living,” he is referring to the desire for independence and autonomy, particularly among older adults.
The problem Gawande references is twofold. First, as people age and their physical and mental abilities decline, maintaining complete independence becomes increasingly difficult. The natural process of aging often brings about limitations and disabilities, which can prevent individuals from fully engaging in activities they once enjoyed and from performing basic tasks of daily living. This loss of independence can be frustrating and disheartening for older adults, as they may feel a loss of control over their own lives.
Furthermore, Gawande argues that our society is not well-equipped to support individuals who are no longer fully independent. The focus tends to be on medical interventions and prolonging life, rather than on ensuring a meaningful quality of life for older adults. This can lead to an overemphasis on medical treatments and interventions that may not align with an individual’s personal goals and preferences. The healthcare system often fails to recognize the importance of allowing individuals to age with dignity and to prioritize their autonomy and choices.
In terms of my own views and experiences of independence, I can relate to Gawande’s observations to some extent. As a student, I have experienced the desire for independence and autonomy in various aspects of my life. However, the challenges I face are different from those encountered by older adults. While I may have more agency and flexibility in terms of decision-making and physical abilities, I still navigate societal expectations and limitations.
Gawande’s perspective on independence and aging aligns with my own belief in the importance of quality of life and autonomy. I believe that individuals should have the right to make decisions about their own lives, even as they age and face physical and cognitive changes. It is essential to recognize and respect the value of individual autonomy and to support individuals in maintaining their independence for as long as possible.
With regard to the chapter titled “Things Fall Apart,” Gawande explores the challenges and complexities associated with aging and the decline of physical and cognitive abilities. This chapter delves into the various ways in which individuals face difficult decisions regarding their care and the trade-offs they must make between safety and autonomy.
In my personal experiences, I have witnessed and faced similar dilemmas when it comes to aging and decline. Seeing my grandparents and other older relatives struggle with balancing their desire for independence with the need for assistance and support has given me firsthand insight into the complexities outlined by Gawande. These experiences have shaped my views, allowing me to empathize with the difficult decisions individuals and their families must make in order to maintain a sense of dignity and personal choice.
Overall, while there may be differences in specific circumstances and individual experiences, my views and experiences of independence and aging align with those of Atul Gawande. We share a common belief in the importance of preserving autonomy and dignity throughout the aging process and the need for society to provide better support for individuals in maintaining their independence.