This chapter discussed death and being prepared to handle it when it comes near. It also talked about the grieving process, and how to deal with deaths around you as you age. It is important to understand that death is a part of life and it happens to everyone whether you are okay with it or not. "Realizing that death is the ultimate destiny for each of us, we need to understand, regardless of our age, the importance of preparing for it" (Hillier & Barrow, 2011, p. 398).
This chapter was good because it went in depth into the grieving process and explained each step of the process and what is happening. This is not only good for the reader to know, but for others as well such as family and friends. Everyone deals with death differently but this process shows a guideline to what many are going through, even if it is not in that particular order. It is also good for social workers to know so that they car help and understand a client to the fullest when dealing with death.
This chapter made me realize how scary it might be for many elders, knowing that life is short and that death is lurking at any time. I do not handle death well so this chapter showed me what I need to prepare for as well as what I can expect with others who are going through sad times from loss of a family member or friend.
Hillier, S. & Barrow, G. (2011). Aging, the individual, and society. 3-28. 9th ed. California: WADSWORTH
Tori, I agree that it is important to understand that death is a part of life and it happens to everyone. Sometimes it is hard for me to understand this especially when I think of those who are closest to me and the fact that I might lose them one day. The quote that you put is essential to this chapter as well, Realizing that death is the ultimate destiny for each of us, we need to understand, regardless of our age, the importance of preparing for it” (Hillier and Barrow, 2011). This quote makes me understand that death is going to happen to all of us and if we are prepared for it, then maybe it will be easier. Like you mentioned in your post, the chapter goes into detail about grieving and that is also a good topic to cover because after a death, most people have a hard time dealing with the situation.
ReplyDeleteI agree as well that it is important to understand the death and dying part of life. It's amazing how one person can be here one day and then gone the next. I have recently lost both of my grandparents within 9 months of each other and it was very heart breaking. It made for a very bad year when the first one passed but when the second one passed I had to look at it as positive, that my grandmother was no longer suffering and did not have to be scared anymore. I think them explaining the grieving process was great as well. It is something we will all have to go through at least once in our lives. It also helps to know the stages of greif so we know what to expect to go through as well. And you're right, I can only imagine what goes through the elderly's head knowing that they could pass on any minute. And yes, we ourselves need to prepare for it as well, hopefully we do not need a full understanding this early in life, but a basic understanding. Great post!
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