Question

What role does Vogel's theory of "a good death" play here in a coming to accept the end of their life and all? Does it just apply to the dying person? Or does it apply to the family members who will endure the loss?

Answer 1

Vogel makes a list what presents the criteria of good death. The following matters confirm the good death:

• One must die without pain. Most of us think that death pain is really unbearable.
• Before death there should be the presence of all the nearer and dearer persons with him. Then there will be mental relief before death.
• A person must have proper medical facilities before death. Death without treatment opposes good death.
• One should have intimate and sufficient spiritual and religious association before death. It makes one mentally strong. Then he does not fear death.
• Vogel says that the dying person should have good relationsip with the caregivers. He should have full satisfaction with the care.
• He must not be emotional for death. He should accept death calmly.

It is not always applicable to a dying person. But some fortunate persons may die with satisfaction.

Vogel’s conditions of good death are no doubt significant. But they do not cover all the conditions of good death. There are other reasons like good deeds, ending of enemies with others, free from economic liability, unconsciousness etc. Vogel’s principles of good death are also controversial.