A death of one's own

Recent interest in the subject of dying arises from fear of medical technology that can now prolong physiologic processes long after cognitive life has fled. The setting and type of terminal care influence the quality of death and the attitudes of those left behind. There are several alternatives to hospital care for the dying, and patients should be able to decide the terms and conditions of their death. Consideration of a "living will" may precipitate a valuable spontaneous dialogue among patient, family, and physician.