Preparing For Hospice Care

Yesterday the head nurse in mom's wing at Bethesda called.  If mom loses another six pounds, which she easily could do this week, we will be talking about hospice care.  I was so hoping we wouldn't get this far.

Over 15 years ago mom had bypass surgery and her life expectancy was a maximum of eight more years.  Mom did a good job of staying fit, exercising and eating healthy, for many years after her surgery.  Nevertheless, her cholesterol levels have never been in the preferred range.  And then around the time she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, she quit exercising.  That was eight years ago.  As a result of her inactivity, she has had numerous falls and blood clots.  In the last two years, she has gained approximately 50 pounds and developed congestive heart failure.

So it stands to reason that the family expected a heart attack would take mom well before hospice was needed.  I suppose it still could.  But since mom's journey has been much longer than any of us dreamed, I'm preparing for many weeks of helping dad through mom's hospice care.


*16 Grandma Days until Easter Break*

**40 Grandma Days until End of School Year**