How long does someone have when the doctors recommend putting a loved one in a comfort stage with hospice?

Even doctors caring for the patient himself will often refuse to play any guessing games on this, J. You just won't be able to know. As an RN I can assure you that any guesses anyone makes is more than likely to come out wrong. Your best bet is to ask the patient's doctor to level with you best they can in giving a timeline, but it is just as individual as our own fingerprint what course of progression takes place patient to patient. I am sure sorry for your news and I surely do wish everyone the best and the most peaceful and painfree outcome.

If the ascites (fluid in dad's abdomen) cannot be drained, he will be quite uncomfortable as a result. The doctor can put a small tube into the abdomen to drain off the fluid. This reduces the swelling and makes him feel more comfortable. It's called abdominal paracentesis or an ascitic tap. Draining the fluid relieves symptoms in 90 out of 100 people. I don't know if such a drain is within hospice parameters or not? But I would think so since it's a comfort measure. You can always ask! Be dad's advocate, that's all you can do, along with being there for him for moral support & love.

The swollen blood vessels in dad's throat are known as varices, and go along with advanced liver disease. If one of those pop, it can cause a life threatening situation. Combined with dad not being able to eat as a result of the varices (which are surgically removed in healthier people like my sister in law used to be), he'd need a feeding tube to get proper nutrition. But as you know, feeding tubes are not conducive with hospice. If he can manage liquids, bring him a milkshake when you go visit; not only does it taste good but it's loaded with energy producing calories too. The cold liquid should also feel good in his tender esophagus.

Since your dad has all these serious issues going on, nobody can say how long he has left to live. Hospice can usually give you a good idea once he's on board with them as they've seen so many elders in the transitional stage of life that it's easy for them to recognize how long a person has left. Make sure they're on board with keeping him comfortable, that's the main thing.

It's hard for us 'children' to accept our parents imminent passing; I went through it with both of mine and it was difficult both times. I too visited mom & dad daily during the last weeks/days of their lives. I am sending up some prayers that God has mercy on both of you, spares dad pain, and you the anguish of watching him decline. Please be sure to take care of yourself too as you go through this difficult process.

Jnn, nobody knows. It truly becomes a week by week then day by day vigil.

Hospice can probably give you an idea based on your dads actual condition.

I am so sorry. This is a difficult time. It is really important that you take care of you with rest and good nutrition, it is easy to get overly exhausted and not know what end is up. Say everything you want said, mostly it's about being there and remembering happy times together. Just loving him. Great big warm hug!

I’m sorry you’re experiencing this with your dad. Know that hospice services will help to ensure he’s comfortable and pain free. It’s definitely hard to accept knowing that loss is coming, but it’s a natural part of life. What’s important now is being your dad’s advocate for good care and simply letting him know your love and care. As for how long, doctors and everyone else may give estimates, but your dad will leave this life exactly when he’s meant to and will then be at rest. I wish you both peace

6 months or so. So sorry to hear. Hugs 🤗