Peaceful Dying

The step-by-step guide to preserving your dignity, your choice, and your inner peace at the end of life

By Daniel R. Tobin, M.D.
with Karen Lindsey
Perseus Books
Publication date: December, 1998
208 pp.
ISBN: 0738200344 (paperback)

Synopsis

This practical guide to planning end of life care is based on the FairCare program for peaceful dying which which Dr. Tobin developed at the V. A. Hospital in Albany, New York. He is now expanding the program to a network of other hospitals. The book takes a systematic approach to decisionmaking intended to increase autonomy and peace in end of life care. It is written in plain language for use by persons faced with terminal illness and their caregivers. It uses a 26-step program to help identify key decision points in choosing care. Major issues include development of advance directives, pain relief, choices in care settings, and compassionate advice on how to reach closure with loved ones. Overall it's a clear roadmap that is presented without excessive medical detail.

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, M.D., and author of On Death and Dying, says the book "introduces a common language for conversations at the end of life.... A major contribution to the field." Former U. S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop, M.D., says it "opens the door to seeing dying as part of life can gives clear, compassionate, and practical advice to patients and caregivers alike."

Part One: A Look at the Dying Process

1. Dying as a Natural Part of Living
2. The Human Response to Dying

Part Two: The Steps of FairCare: Positive Living, Peaceful Dying

3. Individuality of Disease, Individuality of Choice

Step A: Recognizing Individuality of Disease, Individuality of Choice

4. Taking Control of Your Life

Step B: Confronting, Expressing, and Diminishing Fear of Dying
Step C: Slowing Down Time and the Mind
Step D: Creating Positive Days

5. Coming to Terms

Step E: Talking to Your Doctor -- The Early Stages
Step F: Talking to Your Family
Step G: Coming to Terms with This Reality
Step H: Seeking Counseling and Support

6. Practical Matters

Step I: Selecting Advance Directives
Step J: Considering Other Practical Concerns

7. Your Spiritual Destiny

Step K: Examining Spiritual Views on Living and Dying

8. The Turning Point

Step L: Being Ready
Step M: Shifting to Care
Step N: Ensuring Your Family Support
Step O: Talking to Your Doctor Again
Step P: Dealing with the Suicide Question

9. Preventing Pain and Isolation

Step Q: Deciding Where to Die
Step R: Getting Relief for Your Pain
Step S: Dealing with Physical Changes
Step T: Nurturing Your Body, Mind, and Spirit
Step U: Telling Your Story

10. Finding Peace

Step V: Embracing Love as the Meaning of Life
Step W: Achieving Peace of Mind
Step X: Helping Plan Your Funeral or Memorial Service
Step Y: Preparing Your Loved Ones for Their Bereavement
Step Z: Dying With Tranquility

Appendices

Appendix 1: The FairCare System and the Life Institute
Appendix 2: Summary of FairCare Concepts
Appendix 3: Living Wills and Health Care Proxy Forms
Appendix 4: Additional Resources and Reading

Acknowledgements

Index

Keywords: Dan Tobin, Daniel Tobin, Daniel R. Tobin

This content is provided by Growth House, Inc., the Internet's leading resource for end-of-life care. Visit our main web site at www.growthhouse.org.

Peaceful Dying

The step-by-step guide to preserving your dignity, your choice, and your inner peace at the end of life

Synopsis

Table of Contents