AboutMargot RN BScN GNC Expertise GERONTOLOGY (NURSING ISSUES RELATED TO THE ELDERY) I have 15+ years experience working with the elderly. I would be pleased to offer any assistance I can. My areas of expertise include: Gerontology / Geriatrics, Long Term Care, Community Nursing, Palliative Care, Private Nursing Services, Intermediate / Extended Care. I also have a personal interest in Homeopathic and Eastern Medicine. If I can not answer your question I`ll do my best to direct you to an appropriate resource. Thank you.
Experience I have fifteen years experience in Gerontological Nursing both in the community, and in Long Term Care. I have worked as a General Duty Nurse, a Nurse Manager, and a Nursing Consultant in Long Term Care and Community Nursing.I have a great deal of experience working with, assessing, and educating in the field of Gerontology (Nursing the Elderly). I am familiar with the challenges associated with Dementia (Alzheimer's), Chronic and Terminal illnesses. Experience in the area 20 years of Long Term Care and Community Nursing, specialising in Geriatrics, Gerontology and PalliativeCare.
Education/Credentials Registered Nurse , Certified Gerontological Nurse, Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Question Is is a natural response for my mother, age 85, to fall asleep after being seated for a few minutes? It has been occurring in the past year, and can occur during drives, watching t.v (all to be expected) but also when seated at the dinner table reading the newspaper. She has an HMO that provides only basic care, and I wonder if I should have her see an independent doctor for a work up. Thank you.
Answer Hi Pamela and thanks for writing,
I think you should have your Mother examined by her physician and have them run some basic tests. You should tell them about her episodes, also try to get as much detail from your Mom before you go as possible to help the physician know what's going on. Ask your Mom if she feels sleepy all the time, or well rested, how does she feel right before she dozes off - does she get short of breath with exertion, etc?
I hope this helps, your Mom may not be getting enough oxygen, or she may not be getting good sleep (Apnea), or she could have an imbalance in her blood (Anemia, Hypothyroid, etc), but you really need to have a doctor run some basic tests and examine her to find out.
