Dad is 96. This is Week 4 of hospice, and also the 4th week that he has not eaten. He still drinks sips of cold water, he still urinates a bit. He is basically skin & bones. My sister is giving him yogurt popsicles which he likes; he often eats half of one, or occasionally a whole one. I am so unfamiliar with this end of life stage; I'm assuming that if dad accepts the popsicle that it's OK for him to have it. Has anyone else had this experience?
We rarely think about how hard it is for the spirit and the body to separate. It has to happen on its own time. It is very hard to watch, but the spirit will leave when it is ready to separate. Until then, all you can do is love him and provide whatever it is that brings a bit of enjoyment or comfort. ((((Hugs))))
Because you care and because you're being mindful I don't think you're going to harm your dad in any way. Things like yogurt pops and popsicles are probably soothing to him. They moisten his mouth and put a little something in his belly. I would continue with things like that.
I think you're doing fine.
He was 92 and was drinking but not eating even on the morning he passed.
The symptom I saw and no one else did was he became "listless" and more "in his head" like he was concentrating on something with his eyes closed.
He still acknowledged me there, but was focused 'inside'.
Sure let him have whatever he wants till he doesnt want it :) he is going down the natural path ((hug))