Expert: Paula Damgaard - 9/3/2011

Question
I'm sure everyone wants to know "how long?".  My husband has had dementia for at least 15 years and was diagnosed 3 years ago with Lewy bodies.  He has declined rapidly since a head injury 6 years ago.  The past two weeks he has not been initating eating, dressing or talking.  He watches TV and sleeps.  Do you think I should contact Hospice if not when?

Answer
Hi Phyllis,
I absolutely think you should contact Hospice!  Why not?  With dementing illnesses, Hospice will come in regardless of whether or not someone has said "he only has six months".  They know that this is a progressive disease and that it is terminal.  

His Medicare will pay for it so call them!  

I hope for your sake and his that it is not a long process you both have suffered enough.  Please take care of yourself and allow Hospice to do what they do best.  You both deserve it.

Peace to you both,
Paula