Loss of mobility

BarnesL

My DW seems to have suddenly lost her mobility. She had been a little slow moving around but now she's in a wheelchair. She can get in and out of the chair very slowly but can only take a couple steps. Just wondering if others have seen this. I'm sure this is a sign of the disease progressing.

terei

I agree it is probably progression. Are you taking advantage of hospice?

SDianeL

yes, unfortunately many people with dementia lose their ability to walk. The part of their brain affected by the disease causes it. I would ask for a hospice evaluation. The next step in progression may be becoming bedridden. So sorry. 💜

BarnesL

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/270576#Comment_270576

The guidelines for hospice are 6 months or less to live. Do you really think the loss of mobiliti indicates this ?

​fesk

If you haven't already, please have a medical evaluation to see if there is a medical reason this may be happening - especially as it is sudden.

JDancer

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/270607#Comment_270607

Hospice has different criteria for dementia patients.

jgreen

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/270607#Comment_270607

Hi @BarnesL

Most people think of hospice as the people who are there at the end of life. With dementia, hospice can be there a lot sooner with staff and resources to help caregivers. Medicare part B and most insurances pay for hospice. Lack of mobility, failure to thrive, and other conditions that can overwhelm the caregiver are reasons to call and request an assessment.

I also learned that palliative care is also available for dementia patients. The difference between palliative care and hospice is that the patient can still receive life sustaining treatment like IV’s, tube feedings, hospitalizations in palliative care whereas hospice is when the caregiver decides on only comfort measures for their loved ones. Palliative care can also refer to hospice when the time comes. With either, you can take the patient off their list whenever you think you can handle things on your own.

You can self refer to either - no need for doctor’s referral. And if the patient does not qualify at the time, they are usually placed on a list for a 6-month follow-up evaluation. I highly recommend contacting hospice when you reach the point that the care is beyond your capabilities/stamina.

CindyBum

Yes to what the others have said about hospice. They are perfectly willing to come out to assess if she qualifies, so you don't have to guess. I found their help incredibly valuable.

jgreen

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/270646#Comment_270646

so good to hear from, you, @CindyBum

SDianeL

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/270607#Comment_270607

hospice has different criteria for dementia. And they offer so much.

marier

I agree with all that has been said so far. I would also have your loved one checked for a silent UTI. My DH ability to walk declines significantly when he has a UTI.

CRI

So how does one know when to stop trying to get them out of bed?
My LO walked to and from the bathroom one day, tried the next day and needed paramedics to get bsck to bed. Has been bedbound nearly two months now.
I've spent a lot of time looking at lifts and transfer chairs but wonder if it's too late.

sandwichone123

Cri, is your LO on hospice? They provide those things. They can be very helpful—worth looking into.

JDancer

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/281204#Comment_281204

Agree. The hospice provided hospital bed was crucial in my spouse's final weeks.