End of life?

Baggie

Me and my brother are both helping to care for my grandad, my nan too and he has carers come in multiple times a day because it's a lot for us to deal with.

He's recently stopped breathing, or struggled breathing every day for the last 7-10 days. Breaths every 30-40 seconds and in a lot of pain, he's had care come out for him and morphine given multiple times now. He only starts to breathe better after he has been given morphine by the care team. Sometimes fading in and out of consciousness and having to be woken up ( even despite sleeping for 8-10 hours the night before ).

It feels like this is very end of life and I guess I just want some confirmation or advice on what to expect. Any help at all is greatly appreciated <3

Jgirl57

Welcome Baggie, Tam Cummings has an end of life “ checklist” that may be helpful to review . Google it and see if it helps . Hugs to you , Nan and your brother .

SDianeL

so sorry about your Granddad. The nurse who comes in should be able to help you understand what is happening. Is it a Hospice Nurse? The breathing is one indication. Sleeping a lot and not eating or drinking are others. Praying for your family.

SDianeL

this might help. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/help-dementia-care/recognising-when-someone-reaching-end-their-life

harshedbuzz

If your grandad is in hospice, his nurse should be able to explain what you're seeing as well.

Wishing you all peace and strength and a peaceful passing for your dear grandad.
HB

Quilting brings calm

If you do not have hospice, call them immediately. They can help you through this. If you do have them, this should be the point at which someone comes every day

ALCB

Welcome to the forum, @Baggie. Here's a checklist that someone posted (I forget who):

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6372d16ea4e02c7ce64425b7/t/63f7b80d80d8aa3e3aa4a47d/1677178894184/DBAT.pdf

It sounds to me like your grandfather is in the final stages of dementia. Wishing you strength and a smooth transition into stage 8.