My 78 year old mother suffered a stroke in March followed by a broken hip in April and then entered a nursing home in which she has just laid down and given up on life. Her dementia is such that the doctor consider's her no longer able to conduct her own affiars. She refuses to get out of the bed or to do anything with PT. She's now sleeping more than usual, basically has to be helped to eat a meal, does not talk as much as usual and today I was not even sure she knew me and anyone else. I got the impression that she is withdrawing into herself.
I will keep you and you Mom in my thoughts and prayers!
steve
It's so hard to give a pat answer, because death is different for everyone, but common signs can include mental changes, such as seeing people who aren't there, changes in vital signs, diminished or stoppage of urine and fecal output, changes to breathing patterns, and skin color changes as circulation becomes diminished.
I hope this answers your question in some way.
I don't know if the Hospice organization that you mention is a for profit organization or not. You could call the main office of the organization and ask.
Hospice does not provide round the clock care and it sounds as though that's what your elder needs, that's what you are paying for. The alternative is to have family provide the care at home and have Hospice come in.
My mother was on hospice care in a nursing home. Her room and board was already being paid for. We had no additional out-of-pocket charges for having her on hospice.
Youngestof3, I believe it is true that Medicare covers the "care" including drugs, equipment, visits, etc. but that the patient is responsible for room and board. Some hospice organizations may have some funds to help defray those costs if necessary.
To that end, I'm playing hookey today and sitting on a NYC beach, early in the morning.