Hospice - Meds / Ensure

Rob's Daughter

Hi All -

I was visiting my parents while the hospice nurse came in for a check on both of my parents. It was the usual blood pressure, listening to the heart and lungs, etc. Since I was there, she brought up the fact that both of my parents are on Memantine and would I want them to discontinue it? I know hospice doesn't pay for it, but she said they like to reduce the number of pills they take.

Also, another question. My mom is losing weight and doesn't eat much unless its something she likes in AL. She loves her ice cream though. Would buying Ensure or another type of product like that be recommended? I'm honestly not sure she'd drink it, it would have to be given to her since she is in a Broda Chair and unable to move.

Thanks for reading.

SusanB-dil

It sure wouldn't hurt to try. MIL is pre-diabetic, so can't have ice cream, but we tell her the Ensure is a milkshake. It may even help to pour it into a 'fancy' glass with a straw. We have a small whisk - I haven't tried it yet, but maybe it would make it look even more like a milkshake with a bit of 'froth'.

--Rebecca--

Ensure is worth a try. Carnation Breakfast Essentials are about the same thing. There is a higher protein version, too. I think the vanilla is the best tasting one. They are caloricly dense, have vitamins and minerals. As far as reducing meds, you might want to do your own research and do a trial change before deciding anything.

Quilting brings calm

My step-dad drank Boost or Ensure while he was on hospice

I would discontinue the mementine. Once you’ve reached the hospice point, it probably isn’t helping

psg712

My mom is diabetic and likes the Glucerna shakes. She drinks one almost every day. It's been a good way to get her some extra protein and calories since her appetite is unpredictable.

Rob's Daughter

Thanks everyone for your help! I'm so glad and thankful for you all.

Kathryn Mc

I give my mom premier protein that I get from Costco. Sometimes I mix it with a bit of diluted decaf coffee, and warm it all up for a warm and breakfast drink. Other times I mix it with a little milk. I try to give her one a day. She is a good eater but this disease takes a toll on their bodies as well as their minds. My mom has maintained her 80 lb weight for the last year.

eaglemom

Since both of your parents are on Hospice, they can offer suggestions. Such as taking them off the Memantine. At this point you probably don't know if its doing anything or not. But if your more comfortable having them on it, be all means continue the medication. I do not know if its stopped abruptly if there could be any side effects. I certainly would find that out prior to making my decision.

As for giving your mom Ensure, or something like that, I would certainly try it. I wouldn't purchase a case of it, I think it comes either in a 4 pack or 6 pack to see if she'll try it. One thing for certain, the colder the drink is the more "dessert like / ice cream like" it seems. They have many flavors, just try what you know your mom likes.

eagle