Sleeps most of day and night, doesn't eat or drink, dementia is worse. She was getting around fine. ? 2 weeks ago today Mom began to deteriorate. She said she was breathing good. This week I took her to PCP (Mom asked to go too) because she had labored breathing and was Not eating/drinking.
PCP said she has heart failure, rattling in lungs. Put her on heart meds, seroquel for sleeping because she wasn't at all and for anxiety, crying and screaming and lasik and pottasium for inflammation lower extremities . She sleeps all day unless I wake her up. Then, she falls off back to sleep quickly. I know meds are probably adding to the sleepiness but w/o it she is nuts/uncontrollable.
Today, she only ate a pack of PB crackers and strawberry ensure. Nothing else. I cook everything and it doesn't matter. She gets about 6-8oz water maybe daily.
Her next PCP appt is this Tuesday.
I don't know if this is another stage of ALZ or what? I am so concerned. I am worn out etc.
I need some advice, conversation and just plain ole "I care". Anyone got info.? I really appreciate your help and time. Hope your Sunday is the best ever. Love
My understanding of hospice is that a doctor has to certify that the patients condition is life limiting and patient is likely to die in six months. Hospice care would provide comfort, not curative care. Hospital bed, some respite time for you, a nurse to come to the house to check on mom. Meds for pain and anxiety. Paid for by Medicare.
I would call the doctor tomorrow and ask if it's time to call in Hospice. The dementia may be worsening, but it sounds like her heart and lungs are actually the bigger problem.
My heart is breaking that this could be her final days of her life. I will talk with her Doc on Tuesday and get the rest of the test results. How much does Hospice cost?
Mom has been a guilt trip and more. I am the oldest and have been used and verbally abused. I am the reason for anything happening good or bad. On top of all that I have been my brother's caregiver also. It all started when I was just 10yrs old. Yes, I am burned out. Praying for the best for all of us.