XIX ISA World Congress of Sociology (July 15-21, 2018)

JS-72

Sociology of the Better Dying

RC15 Sociology of Health (host committee)
RC11 Sociology of Aging

Language: English

The medicalization of death and dying in contemporary society has increased our anxieties around dying within institutional settings. Death and dying have become depersonalized, and appear to focus more on the convenience of the hospital or nursing home staff than on  the dying person or family.  As a society we have forgotten that dying is part of the human process and we find ourselves uncomfortable in the presence of those approaching life’s end.  Consequently, those who are dying find often find themselves alone, isolated and afraid.  This session will deal with the problems arising in the final stage of life. We will look for ways to utilize social relationships and structures which will allow us to ‘have a good death.” We invite both qualitative and quantitative research as well as case studies that provide fresh insight into death and dying. Regional and or community studies are welcome. Of particular interest is the use of volunteers in improving the experience of the dying both in medical or hospice settings.