Hi everyone,
I am really worried about my mum. Over the past couple of weeks I have realised that she has lost the capacity to make a cup of tea for herself. I know this may sound trivial, but, it is her only source of fluid. Often I will find the kettle full of tea bags and stewed tea. I observed her making one yesterday. She boiled the kettle, filled two mugs with water and stood there not knowing what to do. It would not occur to her to drink water or juice. Between myself and the carer we keep her hydrated as much as possible but she can go from mid afternoon until I get there the following day having had nothing to eat or drink.
I rang social services and they suggested leaving a flask! She wouldn't know how to open it and I can't get someone to pop in late afternoon. I am usually busy with my children then.
I have read a lot on this site about UTIs and the problems they cause. I really want to avoid this.
Last week I (reluctantly) put her name down for two care homes very close to me. I cried all the way home because I have been trying to avoid this for a long time. Also, mum always said not to put her in a home. Feeling very guilty right now. At the same time I am hoping a place comes up. Catch 22.
Did anyone else find that it was a little thing that forced their decision to move a loved one into care?
I have been caring for her for 3 years but the deterioration is now marked. She does nothing for herself anymore except surprisingly, making her bed every morning. She doesn't notice that the sheets are soiled though. I can cope with the other aspects of her care but I think that I have got to the stage where her health will be affected by not drinking.
I don't know if anyone can give me any advice but it feels better to get this off my chest. I realise that many of you are dealing with much worse problems.
Regards,
Jeanne.
I am really worried about my mum. Over the past couple of weeks I have realised that she has lost the capacity to make a cup of tea for herself. I know this may sound trivial, but, it is her only source of fluid. Often I will find the kettle full of tea bags and stewed tea. I observed her making one yesterday. She boiled the kettle, filled two mugs with water and stood there not knowing what to do. It would not occur to her to drink water or juice. Between myself and the carer we keep her hydrated as much as possible but she can go from mid afternoon until I get there the following day having had nothing to eat or drink.
I rang social services and they suggested leaving a flask! She wouldn't know how to open it and I can't get someone to pop in late afternoon. I am usually busy with my children then.
I have read a lot on this site about UTIs and the problems they cause. I really want to avoid this.
Last week I (reluctantly) put her name down for two care homes very close to me. I cried all the way home because I have been trying to avoid this for a long time. Also, mum always said not to put her in a home. Feeling very guilty right now. At the same time I am hoping a place comes up. Catch 22.
Did anyone else find that it was a little thing that forced their decision to move a loved one into care?
I have been caring for her for 3 years but the deterioration is now marked. She does nothing for herself anymore except surprisingly, making her bed every morning. She doesn't notice that the sheets are soiled though. I can cope with the other aspects of her care but I think that I have got to the stage where her health will be affected by not drinking.
I don't know if anyone can give me any advice but it feels better to get this off my chest. I realise that many of you are dealing with much worse problems.
Regards,
Jeanne.