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What Is The Life Expectancy Of An Elderly Person With Low Appetite And Dementia?
My mother is 87 years old and is not eating. We have been trying to give her orange cooladas from dunkin dounts is this a good idea. She is in a nursing home and is not eating and not drinking. SHe also had dimentia. How long does she have left on earth
Wed, 29 Mar 2023
Hi,
It is difficult to determine the life expectancy of an elderly person with low appetite and dementia, as many factors can influence overall health and life expectancy. However, note that poor appetite and dehydration can have substantial consequences on elderly individuals, including an increased risk of infection, weakness, and organ failure.
It is important to consult with your mother's healthcare provider and nursing home staff to address her low appetite and dehydration and to develop a plan of care to support her overall health and well-being. In some cases, interventions such as changes in diet or medication can help to improve appetite and hydration, while in other cases more aggressive interventions such as tube feeding may be necessary.
Regarding the orange colada from Dunkin' Donuts, while this may provide some hydration and calories, it is important to ensure that your mother is receiving appropriate nutrition and hydration from a variety of sources, including water, electrolyte solutions, and nutrient-rich foods.
In terms of predicting life expectancy, it is important to focus on providing comfort and supportive care for your mother, rather than trying to predict a specific timeline. Hospice and palliative care services can provide additional support and resources to help manage symptoms and promote quality of life.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
It is difficult to determine the life expectancy of an elderly person with low appetite and dementia, as many factors can influence overall health and life expectancy. However, note that poor appetite and dehydration can have substantial consequences on elderly individuals, including an increased risk of infection, weakness, and organ failure.
It is important to consult with your mother's healthcare provider and nursing home staff to address her low appetite and dehydration and to develop a plan of care to support her overall health and well-being. In some cases, interventions such as changes in diet or medication can help to improve appetite and hydration, while in other cases more aggressive interventions such as tube feeding may be necessary.
Regarding the orange colada from Dunkin' Donuts, while this may provide some hydration and calories, it is important to ensure that your mother is receiving appropriate nutrition and hydration from a variety of sources, including water, electrolyte solutions, and nutrient-rich foods.
In terms of predicting life expectancy, it is important to focus on providing comfort and supportive care for your mother, rather than trying to predict a specific timeline. Hospice and palliative care services can provide additional support and resources to help manage symptoms and promote quality of life.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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