A conversation about medical choices, saying goodbye, and the questions we would rather avoid.

Modern healthcare enables us to live longer than ever before. We often prefer to postpone thinking about death for as long as possible and rarely feel comfortable talking about it. Yet there are important decisions that need to be made. If you become seriously ill, for example, how do you choose between intensive medical treatment and palliative care? How can you say goodbye with dignity? And how do you cope with what comes afterwards?

Moderator Meriam Tuinhof explores the final stage of life with a panel of experts. Emeritus Professor of General Practice Betty Meyboom-de Jong discusses why it is so important to talk openly about death, as she advocates in her practical guide Uitburgeren. Together with Sander de Hosson, pulmonologist and author of the children's book Game Over, she will discuss the balance between treatment and overtreatment. Religious studies scholar Brenda Mathijssen joins the conversation to explore how we can give meaning to the end of life in a way that reflects our own values and wishes.

Every month, the Kenniscafé brings together researchers, scientists, and other experts from Groningen to discuss current issues and topics that matter. Kenniscafé is organised by Studium Generale, Science LinX, and Forum Groningen, with support from the Groningen Agreement.

Illustration: Yvette Compaijen