OK. Here it is: I try to keep things on the light side here, no politics, religion or controversial matter - hey ! Thats how I roll..... but I need some help and I figured since I spend most of my free time at the Den, you guys would be able to assist. My mother is 66 y/o and has been fighting TB for the last 4 years. She refuses to take care of herself and her physical condition is shaky, at best. She doesnt eat well, doesnt get enough sleep and as she ages, is not able to fend off illness like she used to. When she finally was diagnosed with TB (6 months of "testing" to finally determine) she had lost 40 lbs and her bad habits did nothing to help her regain her health. This past week she had really been complaining about her coughing, moreso than usual, and "thought" she had a cold. Didnt go to her doctor for a week and when Dad finally took her to the ER, they found she had pneumonia. Didnt admit her to the hospital, just prescribed some meds and sent her on her way. We visited on Christmas Eve and she looks like she's on her death bed.... Sorry to be such a downer but I really dont know what else we can do. If anyone has suggestions, I am all ears. She is not recuperating and I'm afraid she wont make it to the ER the next time. Please keep us in your prayers and thoughts....
Whoa, I'm really sorry to hear that, Rick, my thoughts are with you and your family. 66 years... that's no age at all. When I imagine that I'll have to work until I'm 80 to get any pension at all... that's just plain scary. Talkin' bout working until you die... But that's not the topic here. I had a similar situation with me granddad who passed away last year. Didn't like doctors, didn't take his TBC-medicine and in the end he died a few years sooner than he had to. But you have to see this as the decision of the person itself, you can't help someone who doesn't want to be helped. Create a comfy atmosphere for her, help her feel loved and needed by the family. This is not only good for her but it'll also help yourself mentally.
YOu can try either the ER or you private Doctor and say you want her to be admitted to the hospital for the pneumonia/failure to thrive. Ive seen it done multiple times so dont let them tell you it cant be done.
Sorry to hear this Rick. I have a similar situation. Your father and her doctor can intervene to help if she does not want to help herself. Your father can dial 911. Her general practioner is the key here. They can do even more. Talk to her doctor for options. You, unfortunately have no rights or say. Sucks, I know. We finally had to have my sister declared my mother's guardian with my mother's permission. Good Luck and prayers.
Sorry to hear that Rick. I can offer no advice other than what has been mentioned above. Thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family! Best,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family, bro. You've got some good advice so far. Good luck with whatever you choose to do.
