Refusing to eat, drink or take meds, eyeing me with suspicion

gampiano

OK...

Husband showed some improvement on Wednesday, and after refusing to go to the lab for specimen delivery and more bloodwork {to see if UTI was cleared}, finally cooperated once we were at the hospital. However, he began to refuse food, ate a little, was reluctant to drink fluids. Finally had some ice cream. This is the new pattern now, Wed, Thurs, Friday. Today we had a visit from 2 social workers to give us info on Palliative Care. After about 30 min of observation, they suggested hospice services and we filled out intake for that as well. Medicare guidelines for Hospice require Stage 7, and im not sure where he is at this point. I'm so used to his deficits that they have become normalized, so when an objective observation takes place, the reality of his decline becomes more evident to me. I feel that his decline is accelerating. Anyway, a hospice nurse will be here in the morning. Such a turn of events.

Ill keep you posted,

Maureen

CindyBum

Thinking you as you and sending a big hug.

Cindy

Ed1937

Maureen, it sounds as though you are at the bittersweet stage. I'm sorry it's becoming more difficult, but glad others are there trying to help.

gampiano

thank you ED. You always seem to have the right words....

gampiano

AnderK

A kudo for hospice. I did volunteer work for a great hospice organization. One of my projects was to contact caregivers...from parents, spouses. Significant others, children...to see how things were going, get answers to questions. I can't count the number of times I was told that the caregiver's only regret was that they fought it too long, and wished they had enlisted hospice earlier. Your comment about living with it so long, and getting an outside observer is so true. I am happy for you that you are taking this step. Best.

White Crane

Maureen, I’m so sorry for what you’re going through and I’m glad you brought hospice on board. I understand what you said about becoming so used to the deficits that they become normalized. Seeing our loved one through someone else’s eyes can be a shock. Stay strong and know that you’re not alone. Sending hugs and prayers.

Brenda

Joydean

Maureen, so glad you are getting extra help. It’s so hard when we have to see what others are seeing. We truly do become “used to “ things. Take care of yourself now!