ABSTRACT
Death is part of the life cycle yet continues to be a difficult transition for most people. In 1900, the average life expectancy was only 50 years and infant mortality was very high. Because of improved sanitation, immunization programs, antibiotics, improved management of acute illnesses, trauma care, and other improved therapies, Americans now live well into their late 70s or 80s (Emanuel et al., 1999). As a result of these advances, people now expect to have prolonged experiences of living with chronic illnesses and ultimately the end of life.
