Hoping to die

July 21, 2005 12:36 PM

A relative who's nearly a hundred years old wishes to die. This relative is housed and cared for, has had a huge and interesting life, but since losing sight and hearing and bladder control and autonomy and pretty much everything else, frankly would like to die.

I would appreciate a link to a listserv or blog in which these matters, including euthanasia, are discussed, WITHOUT reference to religion.

posted by anonymous to Law & Government (7 answers total)

It is the end of the day and I am to tired/lazy to do any research but your family is in my thoughts. I wish you the best to finding a solution that brings peace to your relative and to you. My wife and I are about to confront the same struggle with her mother (age 94) who is rapidly moving from a vibrant and very rewarding life to total physical and emotional dependence .
posted by rmhsinc at 1:12 PM on July 21, 2005

in finding not to finding--sorry
posted by rmhsinc at 1:15 PM on July 21, 2005

The Hemlock Society's website, and this specific subpage of their site, may be of use, although on brief perusal I see nothing specifically citing an online listserv or message board.

(The website URL reminded me of the 'CARE Pregnancy Center' situation that pro-life people have done in big cities, but the WHOIS record indicates their ownership.)
posted by WCityMike at 1:50 PM on July 21, 2005

for obvious reasons, i'm not going to outline anything here
but feel free to email me if you end up without adequate, well rounded information on the topic
posted by philida at 4:27 PM on July 21, 2005

You may try to restore this loved one's sense of well being,with a weak tea of poppy heads.It is an ancient remedy and really subtlety makes a person feel better,
posted by hortense at 12:06 AM on July 22, 2005

Yeah poppies are great!
posted by phrontist at 3:32 AM on July 22, 2005

Oh, for pity's sake phrontist, I hardly think addicition is an issue in this case.

/not helpful

good luck anonymous - my google-fu is sadly lacking. I hope you find the resources you and your family are looking for - this must be a very difficult time.
posted by Space Kitty at 11:09 AM on July 22, 2005