Start or Continue Life Support? Past Conversations Can Guide You

Photo credit Tom Pumford Dear Carol: My mom, age 81, died recently. What happened was that she’d had a stroke and was rushed to the hospital in time to save her. She was in tough shape, but physical therapy helped some, so we celebrated her success.  She told me, though, that she doubted that saving her life was what she’d have wanted, considering the results. She also said that no one can know what will happen, so she accepts this as part of life. After two weeks at home, she had another stroke and was again hospitalized. Doctors stabilized her, but a day later she had yet another stroke. Since by now she was unresponsive and I was her Power of attorney for health care, they asked me what should be done going into the future. I told them no more “saving” her life. I made this decision based on our past conversations about end-of-life care. Two days later she died. One part of me feels that I did the right thing. The other part is second-guessing my decision. Was I right? I’d just like to feel better about it. – JD Continue reading on Inforum for more insight into how we can help our loved ones as they face their final challenges in the health care system:  Purchase Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories – paperback or ebook  General caregiving or incontinence questions? We’re here to help with ASK CAROL. Egosan wants to help you live your life fully: Try Egosan premium underwear for discrete, dignified protection. For ...
Source: Minding Our Elders - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: blogs