Many are currently working on the issue of death, with the hope of finding a solution. Perhaps they will succeed, and in my 900th year, out of sheer boredom, I will revisit this sentence, reminiscing about the wasted first century of my life. However, in the meantime, billions will perish – some from illness, some in accidents, and a significant number from what we commonly refer to as “old age.” The idea of dying from old age sounds peaceful and gentle, but what does it really entail? To explore this question further, we consulted a variety of experts for this week’s Giz Asks.
Elizabeth Dzeng, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, explains that it is common to say someone died of old age, but in reality, there are always underlying diseases or new illnesses that lead to death. Old age itself is not listed as a cause of death on a certificate; instead, it is usually something like cardiac arrest resulting from an underlying issue such as an infection, heart attack, or cancer. As we age, our bodies experience wear and tear, and our ability to respond to health problems diminishes. Illness may manifest differently in older individuals, with symptoms that are not always typical.
Jessica Humphreys, also an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, specializing in palliative care, points out that everyone ultimately dies when their heart stops beating. While the idea of a peaceful death in old age is appealing, the reality is that the dying process is often complex and involves various underlying causes. She emphasizes the importance of alleviating suffering as much as possible during this period.
David Casarett, a Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine, challenges the notion of dying of old age, emphasizing that aging increases the risk of various illnesses that may ultimately lead to death. He shares the story of his grandmother, who lived to 103 but did not die of old age – instead, a series of health events culminated in her passing. Casarett raises the thought-provoking question of what one ultimately wants to die from if they manage to avoid common life-threatening illnesses.
In conclusion, the concept of dying from old age is a myth, as there are always underlying causes that lead to death. The exploration of this topic by experts sheds light on the complexities of the dying process and the importance of addressing and alleviating suffering during this critical time.