Local experts say as more baby boomers are aging, they are more curious about thoughtful planning for death. They also say the COVID-19 pandemic spurred interest in talking about death because many people did not have control over the circumstances of their deaths, and their loved ones felt helpless in the face of that fact.
Many pet owners say home-based veterinary palliative and hospice care and, when the time comes, euthanasia have helped them and their companion animals through end-of-life transitions.
A lack of planning for long-term health care has left many Asheville seniors and their families unprepared to meet end-of-life medical needs. But local experts in advance planning say there are many resources available to help with such planning and suggest starting as early as possible.
The regional nonprofit Four Seasons Compassion for Life is transforming its workplace into a healthier environment — which its leaders believe benefits both employees and the organization.
Local end-of-life activist Greg Lathrop questions whether we cheat ourselves of the chance for a more meaningful life if we spend our days running from the inevitability of death.
