Expert: Paula Damgaard - 6/12/2008

Question
My mother has had alzheimers for the past 11 years.  She has been wheelchair bound for almost 4 1/2 years now. she cannot move, has to be fed and her arms have seized up.  she lies in a fetal position. The is no recognition and no legible speech.  However she has started to cry an moan when she is lying down.  I have mentioned this to the nursing staff and they said that she is ok. They turn her every couple of hours.  When she is being turned she is particurlarly uncomfortable. I am afraid that she is in pain and not being treated for it.  I look at her every day and wonder how long this illness can go on for I reckon she is at stage 7e.  She still has a good appetite.  The doctors are amazed by this.  I know you cannot say how long this can for on for but the nursing staff just keep telling me she is doing well.  I just need someone to give me an indication of what to expect.  She had a TIA about a month ago.

Thanks Paula  

Answer
Hi Mary, you are right I cannot give a timeline, I wish I could!  I would suggest you contact Hospice.  She is definitely eligible and they will medicate her for pain!  Also they can help you to determine what should and shouldn't be done to her.  That will help you a lot.  This will make her more comfortable and take some burden off her.  Hope you find peace soon.  Paula