Last week, Mom was dehydrated and got sick. I put her to bed and every time she would lay back she had to sit back up. She tried to vomit but all she did was dry heave, violently. Nothing came up. I thought this was so odd as she should have at least threw up her lunch. Right? Anyway, the next day she was fine with no memory of the night before.
Since this episode, the CNA's have been more attentive to her fluid intake. She seems better, with the exception of saying that she is "swimmie headed." (Dizzy). I assume the dehydration is to blame.
When I visited Mom today, her CNA said that she could not get her to eat her lunch. She said she tried several times and stopped when Mom became frustrated. So, no lunch for Mom.
I'm wondering if this is her new normal. I know that when she eats, she eats a few bites and stops, saying that she is full. I ate lunch with her yesterday and she ate very little.
Has anyone had a similar experience with their LO?
If not, leave her be, that's my suggestion. We have a son who comes here frequently to visit his mother who's losing weight and down to 104 lbs. She's lost her appetite and doesn't really want to eat anymore. That happens with later stage dementia, and there's nothing anyone can really do about it. He, however, insists on 'fattening her up' which really makes no sense. There comes a time when an elder's wishes should be respected, regardless of how we children feel about what they 'should' or 'should not' be doing, you know?
I know how hard this process truly is. So I'm sending you my very best wishes and a big HUG as well.
No one can say definitely that this is the end for anyone. However, eating less can be a sign of movement in that direction. I guess you have to wait and see if this continues. (((((((hugs)))))) It isn't easy.