Hospice stories of deathbed visions are common with dying patients reporting visits from deceased loved ones, angels, or spiritual guides. While it may be difficult to understand or explain deathbed visions, hospice care staff have seen them bring real comfort to dying patients.
When we turn our clocks back and days get shorter, many of us feel disoriented and mourn the loss of daylight. But for patients with dementia, the effects can be profound. A symptom called sundowning, which relates to increased agitation or confusion among men and women experiencing dementia, is common and disruptive. And as we usher in the colder months, sundowning can get worse.
We grow up thinking chicken soup will make us well, but when a person has trouble swallowing, the simple act of eating or drinking can become dangerous. Difficulty swallowing is known medically as dysphagia. It can cause not just choking, but also aspiration pneumonia when liquids or food particles slide down the windpipe and infect the lungs.
As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Bumps, scratches, and cuts happen more easily and take longer to heal. Skin tears become more common. Seniors may also be facing diabetes, poor nutrition, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system which makes healing more difficult.
After a year of pandemic precautions, many families are planning to hold a safe Easter together. Many Americans have already received a COVID-19 vaccine, and communities are relaxing some restrictions.
Hearing that a loved one has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be overwhelming. It’s hard to know what to say and how to help. Understanding more about MS can help, but the most important thing you can do is let them know that you are going to be there for them through it all.
