Mom is on stage 4/5 dementia. I’ve noticed that when I put her to bed she only sleeps on her right side, and she is sleeping on that side/position for the entire night. I’m concerned for her blood circulation, I’m afraid she might get numb and she may not know and obviously I may not even tell. Did you experience this with your loved one? And what did you do?
Also when she wakes up, mom wants to stay in bed for HOURS. I let her stay for 30 min and tell her all the places we will go today and rub her feet in hopes that her brain will notice it’s daylight and get out of bed; unfortunately many times I end up just forcing her out of bed after 1 30 min. Could others share with me how I can handle this situation?
If not is she wet in the morning?
You could either try getting her up before you go to bed and get her to the bathroom or change her that will change her position.
You could ask the doctor to approve a Hospital Bed with an alternating pressure mattress. That will help keep circulation going.
If mom is Hospice eligible she would get one through Hospice.
As a person declines they will sleep longer that is part of the process.
I would just start getting my Husband up at about 7 am. (He would want to go to bed at 7 pm, he started doing that about the time he was diagnosed with dementia) I would go to his bed (hospital bed) and give him a big "Good Morning" and then start getting him started with the day. Used a Gait belt to start then the same process when I had to start using a Sit To Stand to get him up then later the Hoyer Lift.
As far as her not wanting to get out of bed, perhaps it might be time to get hospice involved, as that may just be a sign that her body is slowing down, and it may be best to let her be.
Now, if she's developing bed sores or ulcers, then she needs to be moved or repositioned.
Get her doctor involved for a hospice evaluation; they can provide her with extra supplies *hospital bed* and services that come in handy as she progresses towards the end.
Good luck!
My mom was in pain when she was turned so pain medication was given before she was scheduled to be turned.
I wouldn’t tell her about outings if she isn’t up for them. Hearing about the outings probably won’t motivate her in any way.
Wishing you peace as you navigate your way through your caregiving challenges. It’s not always easy knowing what to do. This forum can be helpful. Stay in touch. Continue to speak with your mom’s nurses for guidance.