The Art of Dying Well

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This inspiring and practical guide addresses end-of-life issues, authored by a leading expert and bestselling author. The mid-1400s saw the creation of Ars Moriendi, a self-help book by an unnamed Catholic monk that provided guidance on navigating deathbed experiences through rituals of repentance and letting go. Katy Butler contends that modern society has lost touch with this "art of dying," despite a continued yearning for meaningful rites of passage during life's transitions. Through her extensive lectures at medical schools and discussions with caregiving organizations, Butler shares insights on the current state of dying in America and emphasizes the importance of a quality end of life. She critiques the disarray of the medical system in addressing the needs of the aging, dying, and chronically ill, advocating for a focus on living well rather than merely extending life. The existing system not only fails to meet medical needs but also diminishes the sacredness of the dying process. By exploring the stages of later life and sharing "good death" stories, this guide aims to restore honor and illuminate a path toward a more meaningful end of life experience.