I have tried to find a forum to go with my thoughts and this forum seemed to touch on similar concerns. My dear mum with vascular dementia had a small stroke at Christmas leaving her with slightly slurred speech and minor swallow difficulty. She was quickly able to return to the care home where she has remained. By mid February her head appeared to have been forced to one side and fluid, nutrition intake rapidly decline. She declined to move from her bed where she has remained since. Treated for urine and a chest infection. End of April and discussion with G.P it was agreed she was reaching end of life, and syringe kit prescribed but to date not used. She has not really eaten for almost 7 weeks now, fluid intake only manages 50 mls if that. Her dysphagia is acute, gross and distressing for family to see her deteriorating and so weak. She remains mentally alert, conscious of who may be around, but mainly sleeps all the time. No longer interested in T.V her main companion since 30 years of being a widow. I am unable to be with her as I live over 250 miles away. I went up numerous times Jan - April, and my last visit to her we were able to say how much we loved one another, and I managed to arrange for the reverend to visit and spend time with her. Although it was a distressing visit it was also a positive time. I now wait and wish but there are times I think I just cannot keep sane anymore and I am just going to lose it either in a crumpled heap of tears or fit of anger. Always strong willed her fighting strength gives me courage when my mind is weak.