Expert: Paula Damgaard - 1/14/2009

Question
Good day! My dad is 80 years old. Currently in an ALF. He has been suffering from dementia for over 4years.  In review of stages, Dad is in stage 7.As of a few weeks he can no longer walk, confined to wheelchair, needs assistance for every thing.  Non responsive to me and family. He is currently on hospice,however, two weeks ago he fell at facility and had a bad cut to his chin. Thank God that is all that occurred. I have had so many issues with Florida elder system in treating him and my mother. She passed away as a result of a fall and kidney failure. Hospice has been providing continuous care but want to remove him. Yet ALF cannot watch over him 24-7.  My question is: where can I seek assistance to maintain continuous care.  This will be the second ALF in a few months. Please note that I have communicated, and communicated with hospice, complained yet this care will stop. I am so upset, distressed, confused, frustrated.  Dad is in the late stage why remove this critical help now. Please advise.  I do not want him to pass on due a fall, weight loss (he weighs 115). This is a security issue, dignity at this time. I have been so involved with so many agencies but getting no where. Thanking you in advance.  I live in Broward County, Florida.

Answer
Su, I am so sorry you are having to go through all this.  It does seem that Hospice is dropping the ball.  I have found that several times.  Even when my own mother was dying.  Not sure if Hospice has caught up to the idea that people with Ad are dying.  Strange.

My wonder is how is he still in an ALF??  Here he would have been transferred to a nursing home where there is more staff and more people to watch him.  Asst'd living means that he can assist in his care.  Doesn't sound like he can to me from what you describe.  

I would check into the nursing homes in your area and see what availability is there.  

We do not do a very good job in allowing our elderly to die in dignity that is for sure.  I hope you get some help with him.  Have you checked the Area Board on Aging?  They may be able to point you in the right direction as well.  

Hope this helps.  I am sorry.  Paula