Death is an integral and expected, even anticipated part of growing beyond eighty-plus years. Seniors are regularly reading the obituary pages, hearing the news of friends and colleagues who have passed on. Losing those around one is a normal part of aging, on that only seems to accelerate in later years.
While some people continue to live complete, vital lives, throughout their years, others are so painfully aware by the loss of autonomy, loss of friends and family, loss of multi-generational relationships, that going on seems pointless.
What is clear is that the presence of death is pervasive, and while many ultimately die of “natural causes,” others choose their time, place, and method of death. And within the elder community, generally, that’s okay, accepted, and understood.