Of Meatballs And Invasive Neurotechnological Trials: Additional Considerations for Complex Clinical Decisions

摘要

Using this case, Lavazza and Reichlin (2018) explored the ethical dilemmas associated with decision making in people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), specifically when their new preferences conflict with long-held beliefs and principles. They examined possible courses of action from the viewpoints and positions of Dresser, Dworkin, and Jaworska on the effect of dementia on autonomy, and on how this influences debates about interests that need to be honored. Lavazza and Reichlin (2018) further argued that autonomy is not the only consideration important in respecting the wishes of people with AD, and they underscored the importance of evaluating the benefits and harms of an individual’s choice on both his or her critical and experiential interests. Though this is an instructive case study that could offer guidance in everyday care for people with dementia, the action being deliberated upon has relatively minor threat to physical health and life.