Palliative Care: Hibernation

Decline of appetite, retreating to a chair on a regular basis, or simply not able to get out of bed. There are various forms of hibernation we will experience during the decline. Hibernation is a natural occurrence but there is also a inducing practice in some care facilities and hospitals. Hibernation is what some people fear most about death. It’s why so many people just say, I just want to pass in my sleep. Thinking of your loved one’s or caregivers watching you slowly decline, is heartbreaking. From my experience with my parents and other family members. The most common hibernation path is retreating to a place of comfort. The most common comfort for those in decline, is a chair. From what I’ve gathered from hospice nurses is that a chair provides a cocoon environment for the patient. Sleeping upright allows them to breath easier or even giving them some peace, by removing them from social interactions, or retreating to watching tv, or simply sleep.

In the case of my mother, who had CHF, fluid on the lungs is the final straw to CHF patients system breaking down. Thankfully she did have a adjustable bed that allowed her to sleep sitting up right and a chair that allowed her to raise her legs while sitting. In her chair was where she was happiest. Another part of hibernation is the decline of their appetite. During the decline period, with the reduced movement, comes the less need to replenish energy with sustenance. The diet will also change in this period as well. What I saw from first hand is the diet becomes more about familiar textures, flavors, providing food they just want to have. But an understanding they are not going to eat everything. Maintaining hydration is the hard part of the change.

Recently on social media (don’t get me started about my computer or phone capturing everything I am writing, and then I see social media posts on the same subject) I ran across a product that was being reviewed a nurse who worked in a assisted living community. The product, called Jelly Drops. Candy-like treat that is sugar free and is formulated to be sweet, while providing 95% water for Jelly Drop and electrolytes & vitamins to help increase fluid intake. What I said to myself after watching the video. Where was this 3 years ago. Granted the company is UK founded and based is now shipping to US. The product genius, but I am in no way endorsing this product :-)

While elder care continues to improve in this country, we are making some changes that can help the palliative care. Hibernation is a hard process witness and see your loved one’s go through. Providing the neutral environment environment based on wishes of your loved one, is the smoothest way to help transition through the palliative care. My best advice, recognize and resolve your personal needs away from your loved one, and focus on communication, keep talking when they are aware. Keep old adages, like, keep them moving to keep them alive, in the past. Today, its more important to listen and talk, moving just calms your fears of what is happening. Many try not to talk, because it’s hard to face the reality than is unfolding. Just remember to be aware, or simply listen to your care providers.