Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End

A Review of Atul Gawande's Incredible Read + Self Reflection Questions for Neurocomplex Beings

Photo by Chris Nguyen on Unsplash

Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande is a profound (and foundation-shifting) exploration of the limitations and complexities of modern medicine, particularly when it comes to aging, end-of-life care, and the human desire for autonomy and dignity in the face of illness. The book delves into how the medical system, while extraordinarily adept at prolonging life, often falls short in helping people live well in their final years.

I read this book cover to cover in two days (which is lightning speed for me)!

Gawande, a surgeon, reflects on his own experiences with patients, his family, and the medical system, combining stories and research to argue that the medical profession needs to shift its focus from merely extending life to improving the quality of life during the final stages. One of the key themes is the importance of addressing patients' goals and values rather than simply treating their conditions.

Themes + Reflection Qs

I’ve unpacked and simplified some of the book’s main themes, adding self-reflection questions meant for neurocomplex (gifted, autistic, ADHDer, or a combo) humans of all flavors:

1. The Limits of Modern Medicine:

   • Medicine is highly effective at prolonging life but often fails to address quality of life, particularly at the end stages of life.

   • Many patients experience prolonged suffering due to treatments that focus solely on survival.

   • Self-Reflection Questions: