Follow
Share

My mother was admitted to hospital on 16 th November after a fall at home, and a lung infection, she was given anibiotics and was put on a drip for hydration. After two weeks doctors told me that she was not responding, nothing more they could do. so she was taken off drip and I was told that she was coming to the end of her life. Now on palliative care. for about a week and half. I have been feeding my mother some yogurt, honey, glucose drink and tea. She can still swallow and I give her a straw to drink. Can I buy her ensure or boost products? she asked me today for something to eat/drink fruity. Just wanting to cater to her requests, I know that it will not necessarily lengthen her life expectancy just wanting to accommodate her request and maker her feel more comfortable, any advice would be appreciated.

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Certainly give her those foods, as long as she can keep them down and swallow them safely. If she is not hungry, don't force her to eat, or you will get it all back. God Bless.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

While my mother was in Hospice care with a POLSTin place stating that her wishes were comfort measures only, the types of accommodations you are describing were encouraged. Mom had chosen to not have any life sustaining treatments and did not want any artificially administered nutrition. She was welcome to anything she chose to consume, with or without assistance. Without knowing the details, it would seem that there is nothing wrong with honoring your mother's wishes.

Palliative care is distinct from hospice care. You may find hospice services to be helpful. Both the palliative care professionals and those from hospice were a God send in my mother's final months.

God bless you, remember to look after yourself as well.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

I would ask her doctor first, but if she is able to swallow and is asking for food I cannot see any reason why she should not be given it. Especially a liquid like ensure. Have you talked to the nurses at the hospital where she is, if she can have these drinks or some fruit juice, they may have it right on the floor in their refrigerator. Is she in the hospital or nursing home? Please don't be afraid to ask the nurses and the doctors about this. That is what they are there for. It's not right for your mom to be hungry and asking for something to eat or drink. Usually each floor in a hospital or nursing home has snacks and drinks for their patients, they only need to ask. Please go and talk to them, ask the charge nurse or the nurse that is taking care of your mom. I'm so sorry that this is happening, but please talk to them.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter