Unlike many Western religions, Buddhism generally does not teach the existence of an eternal soul. Instead, it teaches rebirth, karma, and a continuing stream of consciousness influenced by one’s actions, intentions, and mental states.
Islamic teachings generally distinguish between allowing a natural death to occur and intentionally causing death. This distinction plays an important role in discussions surrounding dementia, hospice care, and end-of-life decisions.
Latter-day Saint teachings generally emphasize that God alone determines the beginning and end of mortal life. While members believe in exercising personal agency, they are also taught that life should be treated with reverence and respect.
Judaism teaches that human life is sacred because it is a gift from God. The belief that every person is created in the image of God forms a central foundation of Jewish ethics. Human dignity does not depend on intelligence, productivity, independence, or physical ability.
Although suffering is not typically viewed as desirable, many Protestants believe that God remains present during suffering and illness. Dementia, like other diseases, is generally understood as part of the brokenness of the human condition rather than a loss of a person’s spiritual worth.
The Catholic Church has historically taught that suicide is morally wrong. The Church’s position is based on the belief that human life is a gift from God and that individuals are not the ultimate owners of their lives.