Question

In the lecture on Death and Dying, I cited from Saul's Ted Talk video on the topic of "occupying death" and having some advance directives in place. Which of the following two questions below is one of the more important questions to ask regarding our intentions when we may be approaching death?

A. "In the event that you become too sick to speak for yourself, who would you like to speak for you?"
B. "Do you believe in euthanasia?"
C. "What is your greatest fear about growing old?"
D. What is your idea of a good death?"

Answer 1

The question asking who should speak for you if you become too sick to speak for yourself is important for advance directives, allowing for end-of-life intentions to be known and respected.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the more important questions to ask regarding our intentions when we may be approaching death is: "In the event that you become too sick to speak for yourself, who would you like to speak for you?" This question fundamentally addresses the need for an advance directive or health care proxy, ensuring that one's personal medical and end-of-life decisions are known and can be voiced by a chosen representative, aligning with the practices of creating a living will or Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order. These actions are an essential aspect of planning for a death that maintains one's dignity, respects their wishes, and offers peace of mind to both the individual and their loved ones.