Death: A Personal Understanding, Vol. 4: The Death Bed

Given that we live in a time which makes birth a big media event (breathe honey, now smile for the camera), we have gone to the other extreme with regards to death. Today, 80% of Americans will die in an institution rather than at home; frequently, that is exactly what families prefer. The age-old scene of a dying person surrounded by loved ones has been replaced by individuals dying alone in institutions, or if in the presence of others, surrounded by strangers. However, that's not always the case. Four families here tell their stories about the death of their loved ones (a mother, a daughter, husbands) and how they managed the last days and moments of communication with them in an institutional setting. Other interviewees include counselors and professors in the field who offer advice for people who are facing a death in the family. Although the program works as a stand-alone title, libraries may want to consider the entire series, which appears to be both wide-ranging and comprehensive. The other nine titles in the series are: What is Death?, The Dying Person, Facing Mortality, Fear of Death and Dying, Sudden Death, A Child's View of Death, Grief and Bereavement, Death Rituals and The Good Death. While smaller public libraries may not be able to afford the entire series, they may want to consider purchasing individual programs. Larger libraries will want the to add the entire series (which includes a study guide). An excellent production on an important topic, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (R. Reagan)