Dying in Peace and With Dignity

In his book The Best Way to Say Goodbye, Dr. Stanley Terman examines the process of death from multiple perspectives. He proposes a peaceful and dignified way of dying when a person is in a minimally conscious state, or perhaps suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Terman proposes that one can make his or her final wishes known though a clearly set out and legally enforceable proxy directive.

In this enlightening, engaging, and easy to follow book, Dr. Terman provides practical advice on how to avoid protracted litigation resulting from unclear proxy directives.  According to Dr. Terman, “To Delay is To Deny.”  He gives valuable advice ranging from factors to consider in selecting a proxy to anticipating possible changes in the law or pitfalls in its interpretation. 

Dr. Terman uses a belt and suspenders approach in explaining why a “Directive to Physician” or “Living Will” may be insufficient to ensure full compliance with a person’s last wishes. The book also provides useful forms which estate planning attorneys can use as a guide in preparing their clients’ documentation.