Whether you are confronting the end of your own life or the loss of a loved one, death is a certainty of life that everyone will face. Even so, knowing that it's inevitable doesn't mean you'll feel prepared for dealing with death and the grief that follows. The consequence of living longer is that we will continue to lose friends and loved ones to accidents, illnesses, and, as we reach our later years, simply "old age." My perceptions may also change as me have more experiences with death; this may be felt most strongly if and when your own life is threatened, such as by a serious injury or illness.