Death and dying: New booklet helps caregivers at end stage of dementia

Many caregivers worry when toward the end stages of dementia a family member has problems eating and drinking.
Feeding a loved one a meal is a task most caregivers enjoy. But at some point toward the end stages of dementia a person will have difficulty chewing and swallowing. This can be distressing for family members, especially when feeding a loved one is the only way they feel they can contribute to a loved one's care.

Families often question why artificial nutrition and hydration isn't commenced when a loved one can no longer eat or drink. Watching a loved one deteriorate can be agonising but when a person with end stage dementia stops swallowing it is an indication their body is slowly shutting down.

Providing artificial nutrition or hydration at this point will not prolong life or make a person feel better. The side effects of artificial nutrition and hydration can often cause uncomfortable side effects for a dying person. Unfortunately many carers do not understand or are given adequate preparation or information when it comes to difficult subjects at the end stage of life.

This topic and many others are touched upon in a new booklet by the Alzheimer's Association -Greater Illinois Chapter called Encouraging Comfort Care.

It's well worth a look. Hopefully the Alzheimer's Australia and Palliative Care Australia will join forces and discuss these topics sometime soon.