Talking to doctor about food and fluids intake?

oehlsena

Hello. To those who have in-home care for a loved one- How did your family deal with the changes in your LO when they stopped communicating needs for food and fluids?

N00dles

I have been watching a hospice nurse's videos on YouTube; she talks about this. She says that the patient should be the guide. Also, when the person stop eating and drinking, it is the body's natural way of shutting down. If they are nonverbal, you/caregivers could take cues from the person when offering food; ie. if they accept the food or if they push it away.

Rick4407

Hello, I use the clock to tell when to offer food.  She has breakfast at around 5-6 AM, lunch about 11:30, and dinner around 5 PM.  It's the same routine for the last 6 years.  I use her history of eating to know what she will enjoy.  The only evolution has been slowly to sweeter foods and smaller portions.   

Not being fond of cooking it is a diet that lacks much if any variety.  Cold cereal for breakfast, a PB&J sandwich or a hot dog for lunch, and a meat dish for dinner, usually chicken that I purchase already cooked or a frozen pizza.  Occasionally we get very fancy and I cook "breakfast food".  She has cold milk with ensure mixed in 50/50 as a beverage. 

Recently she has stopped eating until I feed her the first few bites, then she will eat on her own, usually with her fingers.  

It's low effort for me and can be served in 3-4 minutes.  The good news is that I've lost 30 lbs and my DW has not lost much at all.   Rick

Linda_Miami

Maintain a meal schedule and try to stick to it.  Generally, if you are hungry, they are probably hungry.

That said, if you offer your LO food and they dont want to eat, serve them the first few bites.  Sometimes they will begin to eat after they have tasted the food.  If not, wait 30 minutes and try again.  You may also have to offer them something different to eat.  Finger foods are easiest.

Never force them to eat.

 Goodluck.

RyanBerger

I can relate to this situation as I am currently caring for my elderly mother. It can be difficult to adjust to changes in eating and drinking habits. It’s essential to recognize the signs of dehydration and malnutrition. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and discuss ways to make sure that your loved one is getting enough fluids and nutrition. Don't be afraid to ask the doctor for advice or to recommend a nutritionist who can provide guidance and support. You may need an expert in this matter. I recommend checking out https://gpratings.uk  to get the complete information about the specialist you need and choose the best one for a consultation. Above all, be patient and kind with your loved one during this transition. Be sure to listen and provide reassurance to help them adjust to the changes. I hope this helps.