What do you do with an elderly who is waiting to die?

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You are so right no one is guareeted another day so many make long term plans I try to live in the now and smell the roses except I can't grow roses but I do smell my butterfly bush and I love the smell of my tomatoes. I am decluttering my house and am cleaning out rooms amd found old old Bibles and an orignal iron that had to be heated on a stove that was so heavy I do not know how those women could manage it was very interesting-my husband loved clutter so still have a ways to go but now I can throw out what I want to-he would check the garbage pail and bring everything back in the house.

Is she terminal, or just waiting to die because she thinks she is too old. Ask the person what fun thing they would like to do - dinner out, a movie, a DVD, bring in a kitten or puppy to pet. She should get any wish she wants granted. We all should live like we are waiting to die. Most of us forget we will and postpone doing things and hoard our money.

:Look at Michael Douglas - just found out he had throat cancer. We have to live NOW!!!!!

As long as she isn't in pain and it isn't depression which can be altered with medication, maybe just hold her hand and talk to her and listen and be ready for her to go. Unless she is actually harming herself, I am not sure there is a lot you can do. She has lived a long life, she may just be tired and ready to go, but she may not be able to control that. I hope you are doing OK and she can find some peace.

I agree with Jaye. I wish I had been able to record memories of my mothers childhood. Because now she does not remember anything about her life, where it is in her long term or short term memory. They really do need to feel needed, Because all of there life that is all that they have done. They have worked take care of the home and raised there children. Before my mom got real sick when she felt that way I would let her help me around the house. I would wash clothes and take them to her so she could fold them then I would put them up. When I dusted I would give her the pictures and stuff to dust and then I would put them back. I hope this helps?
Oliviajr

Is she ill? Does she have some family that can come and visit? Is she in her own home or a facility or living with you? Many times when someone gets older they do not feel needed. We all need a purpose. WE all need to feel useful I would encourage you to find something she can do! Ask her if she would be willing to record memories of her childhood for her children and grandchildren. Having some memories in her owns will be wonderful for everyone. take care, J