Expert: Michalene Peticca - 6/14/2008

Question
My father in law (84) is in the final stage of Alzheimer.  He is in the fetal position.  He does not eat or drink, perhaps a few drops of water a day.  He has sores on his privates.  Two nights ago his temp. went to 107.  He is in major pain.  The hospice nurse has increased his morphine.  He cannot move or they cannot get him up because of the pain.  How long can he live in this condition?

Answer
Hello Sara,

Thank you for writing and i apologize for my tardy reply!

I know you are experiencing a lot of sadness right now and know you are preparing for the inevitable.   As you understand, your father in law is in the final stages of Alzheimer's disease and it is wonderful that hospice is involved in easing any pain for him.

There is no "set" time for your father in law to pass on.  Although, from your note, he probably has little time or has already passed by now.

Spend as much time as you can with him and encourage family to do the same.

My condolences,

Michalene Peticca, M.A.