When death would be a blessing

[Roses]

It is so very sad when a person, who was highly intelligent heretofore, is struck down with a mind altering condition, which eventually progresses until they are completely away with the fairies. In March I had my monthly phone call with my former geography teacher (92), she had all her marbles and we had a pleasant conversation.  Not long after our chat she was struck down with a stroke, which has left her totally confused, blind, deaf and unable to walk.

My husband's brother (86) has vascular dementia, which has gradually destroyed his brain to the point where he no longer recognises any of his family and has no idea who he is. He also has a number of physical ailments, which are quite serious. His condition has deteriorated and he was admitted to hospital over the weekend, he has been put in a side room, his family have assembled by his bedside, as it doesn't look as if he has much longer to live

In the case of my brother-in-law and former teacher, I think death would be a kindess. What do others think?

[SteveH]

It's not for us to decide whether death is in someone else's best interests. If the person themself requests euthanasia or assisted suicide (they are not synonymous), then it should be allowed within strict rules, but not if they are incapable of making a meaningful decision - and no, I don't believe in "living wills", either.

[Walter]

It is so very sad when a person, who was highly intelligent heretofore, is struck down with a mind altering condition, which eventually progresses until they are completely away with the fairies. In March I had my monthly phone call with my former geography teacher (92), she had all her marbles and we had a pleasant conversation.  Not long after our chat she was struck down with a stroke, which has left her totally confused, blind, deaf and unable to walk.

My husband's brother (86) has vascular dementia, which has gradually destroyed his brain to the point where he no longer recognises any of his family and has no idea who he is. He also has a number of physical ailments, which are quite serious. His condition has deteriorated and he was admitted to hospital over the weekend, he has been put in a side room, his family have assembled by his bedside, as it doesn't look as if he has much longer to live

In the case of my brother-in-law and former teacher, I think death would be a kindess. What do others think?

I totally agree with you Lr , and as for me who lives alone and mainly 'on the road' I have actually considered methods of self euthanasia if I were to find myself in such a position

[Roses]

My brother-in-law is still in the land of the living, but hopefully not for much longer, it is just a waiting game now according to his daughter-in-law.