Compassion and Choices Urges “Legal” Options for Dementia Patients

C & C pretends to “only” want assisted suicide to be legally available for mentally competent, terminally ill adults, generally defined as 6 months to live.  But now, it has shown more of its true colors, broadly hinting that dementia patients should have the option of assisted suicide. From its blog about a man charged with manslaughter for the alleged mercy killing his demented wife:

“This recent allegation illustrates the desperation patients feel, and the need for rational public policy on end-of-life choices,” said Barbara Coombs Lee, president of Compassion & Choices. “This gentleman should have been able to access professional medical advice and find a peaceful, legal way out of the dilemma of advancing dementia. The time has come to close the door on underground, desperate actions by suffering patients.” While Compassion & Choices (C&C) is not aware of all the facts of this case, George Brodigan and his family should have had better end-of-life options.

Well.  Dementia patients are incompetent when they reach the advanced stage, and have more than 6 months to live when they remain competent.  So Coombs Lee is clearly discarding C & C’s earlier assurances and expanding her organization’s advocacy meme.  Don’t believe their blithe assurances of a limited assisted suicide safety valve.  They are not telling the truth.