Learning modules
Activity 4: William's Story
William is a 60-year-old man who grew up in a large family in a regional area of Australia. Over the years, like many of his generation, he has seen amazing improvements in the quality of health care and life expectancy. This is due to such things as the introduction of immunisation, antibiotics and new medical technology.
William has also seen how family structures have changed. He has seen the introduction of aged care facilities to care for frail older people who were previously cared for by their families at home.
William is faced with the possibility that he may be diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. William is concerned about a change in his normal bowel habits and has gone to his GP for advice.
Video
William's story
Thinking points
Activity 4: William's Story
Thinking points
Activity 4: William's Story
- William said he thought he had an outside chance of living to a 'ripe old age' and that he doesn't usually think much about dying.
a) How might such beliefs influence how William responds to a diagnosis of a potential life-limiting illness?
b) What societal and personal factors may have contributed to William's beliefs? Some factors you might like to consider in some detail include:- scientific developments
- demographic changes
- William's past experience with death
- William's age.
- How might William's cultural background influence his response to his illness?
- How might this response differ for a person who comes from a different cultural background?
- What is your immediate reaction to William's situation?
- What do you think influences your reactions? Consider your:
- age
- culture
- religious beliefs
- family background and personal experience.
