Why Families Might NOT Choose to Give Antibiotics in Late Dementia

If she's got an infection, you're going to treat it, right? Well, in the later stages of dementia and on the third round of pneumonia, that might depend on your goal for treatment. Compassionate care based on your loved one's requests might mean that antibiotics aren't the right choice this time.

Maybe you feel like you're giving up on your loved one, but research shows that effectiveness of antibiotics is questionable, and may simply be prolonging the dying process.

If your loved one has early stage dementia and hasn't yet identified their wishes, now's a good time to designate a power of attorney and develop a living will, where he can specify all of his preferences about medical care. This will help you know that you are honoring his wishes when the time comes.

Someone forward you this email? No Sweat! Sign up here to get your own If you're having trouble viewing this email, click here Follow Us Why Families Might NOT Choose to Give Antibiotics in Late Dementia If she's got an infection, you're going to treat it, right? Well, in the later stages of dementia and on the third round of pneumonia, that might depend on your goal for treatment. Compassionate care based on your loved one's requests might mean that antibiotics aren't the right choice this time. Maybe you feel like you're giving up on your loved one, but research shows that effectiveness of antibiotics is questionable, and may simply be prolonging the dying process. If your loved one has early stage dementia and hasn't yet identified their wishes, now's a good time to designate a power of attorney and develop a living will, where he can specify all of his preferences about medical care. This will help you know that you are honoring his wishes when the time comes. Esther Heerema, MSW Alzheimer's & Dementia Expert How Your Touch Can Make a Difference for People with Dementia   It's not just about crossing off items on your TO DO list as a caregiver. Sometimes, it's all about TLC-- tender, loving care. If you find yourself only touching someone to provide care, it's time to regroup and change your mindset. Caring for his heart is just as important as his mind and body, and a hug or handshake can make all of the difference. Don't just take it from me--- there's research that demonstrates several specific benefits as well...Read more READ NOW Why Families May Choose NOT to Give Antibiotics in Late Dementia   Is your love one's goal comfort or a longer length of life? And, how effective are antibiotics in late stage dementia? Find our what research says about this choice, and why you might face it as dementia progresses... Read more READ NOW Did the Doctor Say You Have Mild Cognitive Impairment?   Here's what that really means, as well as information about if an MCI diagnosis is a predictor of if you will develop Alzheimer's disease or not...Read more READ NOW Mental Exercise: 12 Fun Ways to Stretch Your Brain   Perhaps you've heard that it's important to keep your mind active, but do you have any ideas of where to start with that? Is it just a matter of doing crossword puzzles? Try these 12 ways to give your brain a good workout... Read more READ NOW Try this Tasty Fat to Reduce Your Dementia Risk   Not all fat is bad for you. This one can be integrated into your diet on a regular basis and is tasty and good for your brain...Read more READ NOW How to Talk to Someone with Dementia about Quitting Driving   Wondering how to have that conversation about dementia, driving and your safety concerns? Here are 14 tips for success... Read more READ NOW Do You Know these Less Common Symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia?   Are you aware of some of the less common symptoms of Lewy body dementia? Knowing what to expect can help you identify and appropriately treat LBD... Read more READ NOW Featured Articles • How to Ruin a Healthy Salad • The 10 Worst Salad Ingredients for Weight Loss • What to Do When Your Toddler Won't Eat • Learn the 7 Secrets of Skinny Runners • Where to Get Weight Loss Help If You're Overweight • The Best Salad Ingredients for Weight Loss • Healthy Foods for Both Low-Carb and Low-Fat Diets • The Top 6 Signs You May Have an Ulcer Advertisement About Alzheimer's & Dementia  |  Follow Us You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Alzheimer's & Dementia newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here 1500 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY, 10036 © 2015 About.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy.