The lethal pill for seniors.
A controversial study on the lethal pill or suicide pill promoted by the Government of the Netherlands produced a strong controversy. The possible allowance on the faculty for the elderly, to end their life through a lethal euthanasia pill.
Euthanasia or assisted suicide, and sometimes both, have been legalized in a small number in the Netherlands since 2002, but it is only available in situations of extreme suffering or terminal illness and the decision was signed by 2 independent doctors. In all jurisdictions, laws and safeguards were established to warn against the abuse and misuse of these practices. Prevention measures have incorporated, among others, the explicit consent of the person requesting euthanasia, the mandatory communication of all cases, administration only by doctors (with the exception of Switzerland) and the consultation of a second medical opinion.
The government recently published a survey on the scope of the population to which this method of suicide leads and that could be materialized in 2020.
The initial intention
The initial intention was to limit euthanasia and assisted suicide to a last resort option for a very small number of terminally ill people. some jurisdictions now extend the practice of this deadly pill to newborns, children, and people with dementia. A terminal illness is no longer a prerequisite. In the Netherlands like Holland, euthanasia is now being considered for any individual over the age of 70 who is "tired of living". Legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide, therefore, puts many people at risk, affects society's values over time, and does not provide controls. However, in their research, it is also shown that the desire to die could decrease or even disappear when the physical and financial situation of the person improves and even if they stop feeling dependent or alone.
In favor: QUOTE from MP Pia Dijstra, from the liberal party D66:
She argues that "old people who have lived long enough should be able to die when they decide."
Against: Congresswoman QUOTE Carla Dik Faber:
“The elderly can feel unnecessary in a society that does not value old age. It is true that there are people who feel lonely, others may have a life of suffering and this is something that is not easy to solve, but the government and the whole of society must take responsibility. We don't want end-of-life consultants, we want 'life guides'. For us, all lives are valuable. "
Euthanasia of the elderly will continue to be a major public health problem. It will mean more efforts around community care, for mental health, funding and legislative initiatives must focus on this age group to reduce this predictable tragedy at the end of life.
And you, what do you think about the lethal pill?