My grandma is in hospice care at home. She's end stage. She's been asleep for the past 2 days. Before this up for more than 24hrs just making noises. Now not responding to touch, sound, etc. I know she's close to the end? How long does this process last?Is she suffering? My heart is breaking.
Please follow all the advise given above. keep up the nursing care and make sure she is clean and dry. Change her position regularily. you may notive ares of deep blue discoloration especaily on hands, feet and reound mouth. also on the part she is putting most weight on. This is all totally notmal. she may also develope what are called terminal secretions where she has excess fluid in her lungs which may drain from her noes or mouth. this often happens and is frightening to the caregiver and sounds very frightening but the loved one is usually not aware. you can sometimes reduce this by turning from side to side. Just put a towel under her head and keep her face wiped clean. Ask the nurse for the foam mouth swabs and offer water on that. she may suck and swallow or ignore. Don't try and suction secretions this just irritates the throat. grandma is passing peacefully in the best possible wway. Don't hesitate to call your hospice nurse with any questions or if you just feel frightened and alone that is what they are there for. if you want a chaplain to visit hospice can arrange that before or after death. Blessings
She is close to the end. If she doesn't appear to be suffering she probably isn't. If you suspect she is suffering (moaning, grimacing, etc.) call the hospice number.
As the Tin Man found out, the trouble with having a heart is that they do break. It is a true blessing to have someone in your life whose loss is heartbreaking. You will heal in time, and your heart will probably be broken again. It is wonderful to have people you love that much. Warm hugs to you in this time of grief.