Mailbox Response

The question was submitted 28/07/2007

Subject: Lewy Body Dementia

My father is in the final stage of this disease which he has had for about 6 years now and is currently not able to eat or swallow liquids I need to know how long he can last like this and if there is anything else that can be done?

Answer from DementiaNet

Thank you for your question,

If you are unable to take in food and drink orally and no alternative is provided then your father will pass away soon.

When someone cannot take oral fluids then fluid can be given by a drip but this does not provide for the neccessary nutrition and can only be used temporarily. Food and fluids can be given by a tube placed into your father's stomach and this can provide for all his nutritional needs.

You should talk to his doctors and decide what is best in this situation.

The answer was published on DementiaNet 30/07/2007