AboutMargot RN BScN CGN Expertise I nursed my own Mother and Grandmother at home when they were dying so I have personal experience with the emotions involved. I have also spent the last 15+ years as a Registered Nurse caring for The Elderly and Terminally Ill and it has brought me great satisfaction. I am willing to answer any questions I can.
Experience
Past/Present clients Hundreds of Long Term Care Residents as well as hundreds of Cleitns and families in the community (including my Mother and Grandmother).
Question Hello-A few months ago I wrote to you about my mother, who is now in the late stages of dimentia and emphazemia. Your answer was so helpful. I am once again turning to you... At this point, mom is in very poor health, and her doctor said that we could call in Hospice. I have looked up Hospice on the Internet and from my understanding it says that the person who is dying has to give consent. Can I do that, as a POA? My mom does not know she is dying. Please enlighten me about Hospice. I have no one else I can turn to.
Thank you. Pat
Answer Hi again Pat,
"Hospice" is a term used to refer for care for the terminally ill, this an be nursing care in the home or a special unit in a hospital, or even a stand alone centre in the community. I imagie your doctor is recommending you get some home care in to help with the nursing care for your Mother and give you a break and/or professional support. You should call the local government homecare agency and ask what services are available for you - even if you don't need/want them today, it's good to know what services are available for you both.
