My mother has Parkinson's and while she can still eat and drink, I am preparing myself for what may lie ahead. She doesn't want CPR, feeding tube, life support, etc. and I will respect her wishes. I have been told by a caregiver that watching someone die from lack of nutrition (i.e. no feeding tube) is horrible to watch. Does anyone have any first hand knowledge? I know every patient is different...
It's "Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment"
You have been given incorrect information. When mom stops eating, it means the system is shutting down. The horrible part is when patients are not given morphine to ease their breathing and relieve muscle contractions. Another horror is not giving any medications for delirium. Giving too much fluids fills up the lungs and legs and that is painful too. Talk to the MD or a Hospice Nurse.
These decisions are difficult for families but discuss it with your Doctor and Hospice as well.