Introducing the idea of “Slow Medicine”

Posted by Susan Turnbull March 15, 2010 in Blog

An good article and review of a book names an alternative approach for medical treatment for those late in life.  “Fast medicine” is described as the cascading cycle of tests, pills, surgeries  and treatments that doctors, patients and families enter into  with the best of intentions but that may – or may not – extend life and are often determined without regard for the cumulative effect on quality of life.  Slowing down the decision making and giving the family and patient time to understand their choices and to honor the normal aging process may decrease unnecessary suffering and the complications of  treatments.  Good communication is one key to honoring the wishes of the patient and the article advocates the creation of an ethical will.  The book  is called, My Mother, Your Mother: Embracing Slow Medicine, and is intended for those with parents over 80.