Being Mortal

In Being Mortal, renowned surgeon and writer Atul Gawande addresses one of the most compelling issues of our age: the human experience of mortality and the limitations of medicine in the context of aging and death. Through poignant storytelling and insightful analysis, Gawande explores how modern medicine has reshaped our approach to life's end and how this often contrasts with the reality of experiencing a life worth living all the way to the final moments.

Gawande transports the reader across various parts of the globe, presenting real-life cases from his work as a surgeon, as well as stories from his own family and patients. He examines the history and evolution of elder care, questioning the ethical and practical aspects of current medical practices. Rich with personal anecdotes and professional encounters, the book offers a compassionate yet critical look at how medicine often focuses more on prolonging life than on ensuring its quality.

The narrative delves into the inadequacies of the healthcare system and highlights alternative approaches that emphasise dignity and personal fulfilment for the elderly and terminally ill. Gawande's eloquent prose provides a profound reflection on the balance between striving to extend life and making the most of the time we have left. He argues that the ultimate objective is not merely a good death but achieving a good life, even in our final days.

As Gawande confronts the realities of his own profession, he challenges readers to rethink societal norms surrounding aging and death, and to advocate for more humane and personalised approaches to elder care. The book underscores the importance of aligning medical interventions with the patient's desires, fostering environments where seniors can lead fulfilling lives, regardless of their physical constraints.

Published in partnership with the Wellcome Collection, Being Mortal strikes a balance between personal memoir, medical commentary, and sociological study. It invites readers to reconsider how we value life and care for our aging population, offering a thought-provoking perspective on what it means to live well right up until the very end.