The more things change the more they stay the same…
Hospice hasn’t changed anything yet. Granted, Mom is not officially on hospice yet – they are still evaluating how and what services can be provided without an interruption in the care Mom is now receiving. Gratefully, she has been ‘with it’ for the last couple of weeks and I’ve not had the physical stress of taking care of her in addition to the emotional stress of dealing with the changes coming our way.
I’ve been off this past week with my nephew here visiting. We’ve had a great time just hanging out, running errands, eating out and such. That’s worked really well with the regular aide here to watch after mom during the week; she was even able to take in a movie with us. Unfortunately, that assistance ended today with both the arrival of the weekend and the fact she is experiencing another episode of encephalopathy, leaving her unable to walk or talk, eat – or anything else on her own.
If this continues through the night I’ll put her in the hospital tomorrow, although I know she doesn’t want to be there and her doctor doesn’t want her there (hey – he may not want to take care of her anymore for all I know). Regardless of whether they want her in the hospital or not, the patient care is still required and I am not equipped to rehydrate or provide 24-hour 100% care. If hospice were in place, that might be a different story, but we are not there yet.
Blessings all,
-Derek
You are a disruptor. The delivery of health care starts with you, continues because of you, and ends with you. Let's disrupt together to make the world better for family caregivers. 
Karen
Derek,
So glad you were able to spend some time with your nephew and just enjoy life.
I’m hoping for the best for you and your mom. You must do what you know is best regardless of what anyone else may tell you, or make you feel you should or should not be doing, including doctors.
I hope that hospice will be in place soon. Hang in there!
Sharon
I agree with all of Karen’s sentiments that she expressed. Trust your own judgements about what you think is best. Also trust that you are being guided from above.
Denise
Hi Derek–I’m thinking of you today! I hope all is okay. I’m so glad your nephew was in for visit. It sounds like you enjoyed taking life a little bit easier. Thanks for the update! I’m always so glad to hear from you.