But the past week she hasn't wanted to drink what now? My mom has had dementia for at least 10 years she has lived with us for 5 years and has been in the nursing home for almost 4 years. The reason she went in the nursing home was due to her falling and poor appetite. She never has been a big eater even when she didn't have dementia. I don't know if it is time to call in hospice or what. I find myself getting frustrated with the not drinking. I came to terms with the not eating. I know i can't make her drink but I just sometimes don't understand the whole process.
Please call in hospice. And, as Grandma1954 said, do not go for a feeding tube. That only prolongs this natural phase of the death process and adds to suffering (under the conditions that you describe). It's time for acceptance and help with the process to control any suffering that could occur. That generally means hospice.
Take care of yourself, too,
Carol
The final stages the body can not process food.
PLEASE do not do a feeding tube. The body can not process what is put into it so it will either be vomited up and some possibly aspirated or it can cause a blockage.
IV fluids can also cause problems with the respiratory system as the body has a more difficult time processing liquids.
I have read the in the final stages that dehydration can be more comfortable.
If your Mom is not yet on Hospice make a call and allow them to help you and your Mom through this. She will not be left alone, you will get a break and she will get great care in her final days.
I would ask the nurse about Hospice. Only a doctor can place your Mom on Hospice if the doctor examines your Mom's medical records.
Keep us update on what is the next plan.
My prayers are with you and your Mom. Calling in hospice won't change the fact that Mom isn't eating or drinking, that is part of the process but please for your Moms sake do nothing artificial. Hospice will keep a check on her and only give her meds. to keep her comfortable, nothing more. I lost my Mom December 2015 and all this is still really fresh and hurts. God Bless you for being there for your Mom
Definately ask your Dt. to refer her to hospice. They can do comptehensive health check. Would she eat chocakate pudding?Jello? However i believe Hospice should be involved..
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