AboutMichalene Peticca Expertise I'd be happy to help with any questions about Alzheimer's or Dementia diseases. I can also help with Medicare, Long term care & other insurance questions.
Experience I have my Masters degree in Geriatrics and am credentialed through the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Pennstate Milton Hershey hospital and the American Geriatrics Society. I've been in healthcare for over 20 years and worked directly with Alzheimer's and Dementia individuals for most of that time. I am also a licensed insurance agent in PA and MD. Currently i train healthcare professionals to care for Alzheimer and Dementia individuals and i have been a care manager for guardianship services in PA
Organizations American Geriatrics Society
Education/Credentials Masters degree in Geriatrics
Licensed insurance agent in PA & MD.
Past/Present clients PHI Homes in Pennsylvania
York, Dauphin & Adams County Area on Aging
The Jewish Home of Harrisburg
Question My mother is in the advanced stage of Alzheimer/dementia. two months ago she was at home and knew us, the last month she has just went downhill so fast due to urinary tract infections and pneumonia.She has quit eating and sleeps like she is in a comma I understand that these are the final stages but we almost lost her two weeks ago due to dehydration and kidney failure and I don't want her to suffer, so we were advised by the nursing home to take her to the gastroenterologist and request a feeding tube and he told us that it was useless and cruel that we should just let her go. Is this true,is it useless to do the feeding tube?
Answer Hello April,
I am so sorry about your mother's rapid decline. I hope your family gives you comfort at this time.
The decision of a feeding tube is strictly an ethical question and i do not make suggestions either way for it's use or not use.
I would suggest you consider some thoughts while you make the decision: 1. Do you believe your mother would want this? 2. Does your faith express that she should have this?
I know you will make the best decision for your mom.
