End-of-Life Care: Beyond Survival, Toward Dignity

Abstract

Modern medicine has transformed the boundaries of survival. Technologies that once seemed extraordinary are now routine, capable of sustaining organ function long after the possibility of meaningful recovery has faded. Yet, this very progress compels a deeper question: When does sustaining life cease to be healing and begin to prolong the process of dying? At this intersection, the true purpose of medicine must be reaffirmed—not merely to extend life at all costs, but to preserve dignity when cure is no longer attainable.