Posted by Partlycloudy on August 11, 2013, at 20:40:38
In reply to I think our father needs hospice care, posted by sleepygirl2 on July 28, 2013, at 21:53:35
> Anyone have experience with hospice care?
Yes, although it was very clear that when he was admitted to hospice he had reached the end of his road. It was all about making him comfortable. He got to eat whatever he wanted, until he was no longer interested.
All treatments has been stopped except for pain management, and that was up to him. I remember at one point he said, "I didn't think it would take this long." And asked if it could be speeded along. The answer was no.
The staff were amazing. So supportive, in any way you might have needed. His wife could have stayed with him the room had she chosen to. But she said it freaked her out.
When he died, I was the person to go hold his body, say good bye, and feel the warmth leave it. It was so sad that his family didn't want to do it. I felt more than an obligation- I felt it made me closer to him. To feel his spirit depart.
I miss my grandparents death, so this was the closest to it. (My father in law at age 87.) he was plumb worn out.
Hospice was invaluable.
I wish you the best experience possible.
Go your own self, and don't give in to family weirdness. You will feel better for it.PC
poster:Partlycloudy
thread:1047956
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20130807/msgs/1048825.html