Define compassion
To feel sympathy and pity for others suffering or less fortunate than you
Define death
The end of life, which can be determined in several ways but usually accepted as when the brain stops functioning
Define euthanasia
Inducing a painless death, by agreement and with compassion, to ease suffering. From the Greek meaning ‘good death’.
Define heaven
A state of being with God after death
Define hell
A state of being without God (or with the devil) after death
Define hospice
A place that cares for sick patients in their dying days allowing them to die with dignity. Usually charity organisations
What are life support machines
A machine which keeps people alive, either through helping them breathe or take foods and fluids, without which the person would be dead
Define mourning
A period of time, following a death where people show signs of grief
What is palliative care
Healthcare that focuses on relieving the pain and suffering of patients
What does it mean to be in a persistent vegetative state
The condition of a patient, resulting from brain damage, characterised by lack of thought and feeling
Define purgatory
A time of spiritual cleansing and preparation for heaven (strictly a catholic belief)
What is quality of life
A measure of fulfilment or happiness, not only to do with wealth but a person’s health, independence, relationships and general satisfaction with life
Define reincarnation
Being born again in another form
Hindu and Buddhist belief
What is a residential home
A home for the elderly where each individual has their own private room, meals, healthcare and a communal room for socialising.
Define sanctity of life.
A key religious belief that life is God given and sacred, therefore it should be treated with care and respect. God gave life and only God can take it away.
What is sheltered housing?
A complex of individual flats for the elderly which support them to carry on living independent lives, but where a warden is on duty in case of emergencies
Define ageism
Prejudice and discrimination against the elderly