Expert: Michalene Peticca - 1/24/2011

Question
My mother in law seems to be in stage 7 of alzheimers.  She doesn't talk much but when she hears laughing she laughs too although her eyes are closed.  She actually giggles.  What would be the benefit of putting in a feeding tube?  How long will it prolong her life?

Answer
Hello Marilyn,

thank you for writing.  It sounds like your mother in law has had Alzheimer's disease for quite awhile and i'm sure it has been a long process for your family.

I'm so glad to hear that she still responds to laughter.  Music and laughter are usually the last two sounds that are recognized and "processed" by the brain.  

With regards to your question regarding a feeding tube.  That is one of total desire for or against by family and an individual that takes into account religious beliefs and ethical beliefs.

From a medical perspective, a feeding tube can generally sustain an individual for a very long time.  How long?  I've seen it sustain for years.  Will the brain continue to deteriorate in those years?  Yes, Alzheimer's disease continues to deteriorate the brain and brain mass even though someone is on a feeding tube.  How will a person perish after having a feeding tube placed?   Generally from Respitory failure (from prolong laying down, inability to move, etc.)  or infections related to wounds from inability to move, skin breakdown, etc.

Additionally, once feeding tubes are placed, practitioners will not remove them. I would strongly urge you talk with your mother in law's physician about her options.

Best Regards,

Michalene Peticca, MA