Mailbox Response

The question was submitted 24/09/2007

Subject: DEMENTIA.. MY MUM.

MY MUM IS IN THE LATE STAGES OF DEMENTIA, SHE WILL BE GOING INTO PALLIATIVE CARE VERY SOON, SHE IS HAVING A SYRINGE DRIVER AT THE MOMENT AND A DRIP FOR DEHYDRATION, I JUST WANT THIS CARE PACKAGE TO HAPPEN VERY SOON THE DOCTORS WILL NOT SAY HOW LONG MY MOTHER WILL LIVE, WHEN WE SEE HER IN HOSPITAL SHE SEEMS RESTFUL AND PEACEFUL WITH HERSELF, SHE HAS LOTS OF FAMILY AROUND HER, CAN YOU TELL ME THAT WHEN SHE GOES TO THE HOSPICE, IS IT A MATTER OF TIME BEFOR SHE PASSES AWAY, AND WHAT WE CAN EXSPECT..
THANKYOU

Answer from DementiaNet

Thank you for your question,
This is a difficult time for you and your family. I am glad to hear that your mother is entering a hospice. They specialise in the care of terminally ill people. I cannot comment directly on your mothers life expectancy not knowing all the clinical details. I am sure that the hospice nurses and dostor will be able to explain to you and your family what to expect and what they can do to make this as peaceful a journey for your mother as possible.

The answer was published on DementiaNet 24/09/2007