The Professional Geriatric Care Manager’s Blog

End Stage Dementia and Tube feedings

At this stage many people are confused as to what to do for their loved one, especially if there is no Living Will/Advanced Directive in place. End Stage Dementia can be difficult for the patient, family/caregiver, and anyone else who is involved in the care of this person.

By the End-Stage the person is completely dependent on others. They can no longer walk, talk, and eating may be difficult. What do you do at this point? Ask questions and become educated. Also go with what you feel, don’t allow anybody to choose for you, especially if it not something that you would do.

Get the facts. A nursing home will still allow your loved one to stay there, even if you decide not to go ahead and place a tube.

Get all your options and weigh them.

Facts: Peg tubes may not prevent lung infections. Peg Tubes are not required by law, it is YOUR choice. Tube feedings can be stopped at anytime. You are NOT starving your loved one. At end-stage Dementia, patients may not feel hungry or thirsty anymore and sometimes, feeding and hydrating them can cause more discomfort.

I am not telling you I am for or against tube feedings. I am also not telling you what you should do. I am giving you facts that you can use to help you along in your decision making process.

Good Luck!

Tube feeding myths and facts, Altenheim Nursing Home