The Application of Euthanasia in the Lonely Elderly Population and the Corresponding Moral Dilemma

Abstract

Euthanasia is a highly controversial topic. In some cultures, such as the Netherlands, euthanasia is legalized. Euthanasia is regarded as a means to protect fundamental human rights, But in some cultures, such as East Asia, euthanasia is considered against the value of life and social ethics. This paper mainly discusses the application of euthanasia in lonely older adults and the related controversies. As we'll see, aging is often associated with words like loneliness and abandonment. Loneliness further diminishes the quality of life for older people. In the most severe cases, older people cannot care for themselves or suffer from depression and a loss of meaning in life. Then, of course, there are the more traditional afflictions of the elderly by severe illness. This review will look at the expected negative consequences of loneliness, including behavioral, physical, and psychological consequences. Secondly, we will discuss the definition of euthanasia and deontology’s and utilitarianism’s views on euthanasia and analyze the influence of different cultures on attitudes towards euthanasia.