Abandonment of the dying

Nature

Among many primitive tribes it is customary to abandon the dying to their fate.

Background

The problem of abandonment of the dying emerged as a global concern in the late 20th century, highlighted by medical professionals and ethicists observing increasing isolation of terminally ill patients in hospitals and care facilities. Landmark works, such as Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s studies in the 1960s, drew attention to the emotional and social neglect faced by the dying. Subsequent international palliative care movements further documented the prevalence and consequences of this phenomenon across diverse cultural and healthcare settings.

Incidence

Abandonment of the dying is a persistent issue affecting both developed and developing regions, with millions of terminally ill individuals left without adequate care or companionship in their final days. Factors such as overwhelmed healthcare systems, social stigma, and lack of palliative resources contribute to the widespread neglect of dying patients, particularly among the elderly, the poor, and those with stigmatized illnesses. This problem is reported in hospitals, care homes, and private residences worldwide, highlighting its global scale and significance.
In 2022, reports from India’s National Human Rights Commission documented cases in Uttar Pradesh where terminally ill patients were left unattended in overcrowded public hospitals, resulting in preventable suffering and undignified deaths.

Claim

Abandonment of the dying is a grave and unacceptable problem that reflects a deep moral failing in our society. No one deserves to face their final moments alone, stripped of dignity and compassion. Ignoring the needs of the dying not only causes immense suffering but also erodes our collective humanity. We must urgently address this issue, ensuring every person receives the care, presence, and respect they deserve at the end of life.

Counter-claim

The so-called “abandonment of the dying” is vastly overstated and not a significant problem. Modern healthcare systems, families, and communities provide ample support for those at the end of life. Resources are better spent addressing issues that affect the living and can be improved, rather than focusing on a natural process that everyone must face. Prioritizing this topic diverts attention from more pressing and impactful societal concerns.