Expert: Paula Damgaard - 2/6/2009

Question
Is loss of swallow most likely the final stage or could other involuntary muscle/organ come first?  I actually hope it is the latter as I have death with Hospice with my father (Stroke(s)) in same manner.  I am trying to gage the final stage timeline, she has been at complete stage 7 for 3 years.  DO you have any statistical measures of 7 through end time?  I wish my mother would go with peace... thanks for input

Answer
Hank, I wish I did!  But yes the loss of swallowing is definitely end stage behavior.  I hope you have Hospice in place for your mom to help you though this as well.  I hope your mom goes in peace as well and soon for her sake.  Don't allow them to put a feeding tube in.  They are not appropriate for end stage AD.  

Let me know how it goes.  Paula