What to say to my sister when she doesn't want to take her medicine, eat, do anything except say no?
She has had a stroke, has alzheimer's, is diabetic, is in a wheel chair, has swallowing problems and says she want to die. She is 70 years old and depressed?? Has recently moved to a memory care locked facility???? and so much more. Thanks
I would look into palliative care and consider what medications she may need to take to keep her comfortable. I'd read a lot on line about end of life care for dementia patients. I found this brochure helpful. It's quite informative and addresses some misconceptions about medication and nutrition for the terminally ill.
It sounds like she may get her wish soon. Be sure there is a MOLST form on file in accordance with her wishes. I went through a similar situation with my MIL and she did not want a feeding tube. My deepest sympathy to you.
In all honesty, given all her problems and lack of quality in her life her feelings of wanting to die may be justifiable. Is she of sound mind to refuse meds and medical intervention?
Gosh that's always a hard one. Is there a nurse or aide at the facility who could get her to do it? Sometimes my MIL will do something for those in authority (nurse, Dr., etc.) that she refuses to do when I ask her.
Is she being treated for the depression? That might help too, once it is addressed, her desire to participate in life may return some.
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http://avoidablecare.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Sharpe-Handbook-A-Caregivers-Guide-to-Advance-Dementia.pdf
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Is she being treated for the depression? That might help too, once it is addressed, her desire to participate in life may return some.