Expert: Paula Damgaard - 8/11/2009

Question
my mother-in-law years ago filed her advance directive as "keep" on life support. She is now in end stage Alzheimer, not eating or drinking for days. My sister in law is taking care of her at home.  With that advance directive, is she eligible for hospice care?  We are in VA.

Answer
Hi Kathy, being in Virginia myself you would think I would be able to answer this yes or no right away!  I cannot.  The reason is because every Hospice looks at that differently.  SO what you will need to do is call at least two Hospices in the area where you live (hopefully there are two in your area of Virginia!) and ask their opinion.

Some of them realize that when people write up their advance directives that they have no idea what is in store for them and they are only thinking, if I have a heart attack to I want them to resuscitate me.  Or is I am in an accident do I want them to fix me?  They never consider I have AD and am at end stage and there is no hope of me ever recovering from this nasty disease.  

Others take it quite literal and will refuse you because in their minds, you still need to "treat" her.  

Nasty business.  If you can't get Hospice, then I would call the Dept of Aging in your area and find out what services she might be eligible for.  Call the Alzheimer's Assoc as well, they may have some help for you.  

Good luck and I hope you find a cooperating Hospice!  If for no other reason than to give you guys the support you need!  Paula.