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My mother is 96-years-old and sleeps a great deal during the day, and isn't eating very much. Is this normal?

Asked by pattidogs | Jul 26, 2010

Answers 1 to 5 of 5

Jul 26, 2010

Hi Patti & Dogs ~

I think it probably is normal but I am no expert.
Is the weather hot?
I've read about Sundown Syndrome on the Grossed Out & other threads.

Let's help Patti all of you experienced caregivers!

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Heretohelp

Give a Hug

Jul 26, 2010

Although it is common, I would not say it is normal. A lot of time, woman at that age tend to start giving up, and choose not to be active. At this point, sometimes it is only helpful if you the child get's involved, and make decisions for their parent they might not want to make or be able to make themselves. Does your mother have another other health issues or just old age? Have you considered Assisted Living? This could be a way for her to be social and get involved in activities! Also, the care can prevent any "scares" happening.

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Eddie

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Jul 26, 2010

PATTI:

She might be a night owl or probably suffers from severe depression; hard to tell. Plus she's 96, not as active as you'd like her to be, and might be too tired to chew most of the time.

While you set up an appointment with her doctor, check out Helpguide.org and WebMD for tips. Good luck my friend.

-- ED

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cindybrownlbsw

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Jul 28, 2010

I have had more than one almost centenarian tell me that they are tired - not just "body tired" but "brain tired" or "soul tired". Sleep is the ultimate respite for all of us! Fear, anxiety, pain, anger, uncertainty, etc all fade away when a person sleeps.
I have also had many seniors who make the decision to limit how much they choose to participate in the world and sleeping is an acceptable way to "check out"!

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pamela6148

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Jul 28, 2010

My mom sleeps a lot during the day as well. Her appetite has decreased a whole lot, even the things that she really likes that I make for her. When I take her outside to her garden she constantly asks to go in, I just ignore her and keep on working in the yard. I figure she wears herself out by asking over and over besides there are things that need to be done out there.

I adhere to the idea of their body, mind, and spirit just being tired. This makes sense to me. My mom is 90.

Since her health has worsen she's become more difficult, matter of fact she bit me yesterday. So now when she's sleep I kind of think of it as a rest for me.

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