Find Senior Care (City or Zip)
Join Now Log In
S
sleepless44 Asked July 2016

What is a good approach to handling Lewy Body Dementia?

While previously diagnosed as having Parkinson's, I have now been told that my mother has been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. My parents live in a independent living facility. Over the last few months, prior to this diagnosis, the financial planner (who has POA) appointed by their estate attorney has been has been reporting to me that my mother has been displaying difficult behavior - frightening other residents where they live, showing paranoia and searching for my father whenever he left their apartment, arguing with caregivers and showing them resentment. The financial planner has said that the independent living facility will not allow my mother back, and she is now in a hospital where the doctor says she will get the best care for her condition. The financial planner announced to me that they will start 'Palliative treatment' which as she explained to me will mean minimal intervention (if she has cardiac arrest, no one will resuscitate). She said that my mother can be difficult and sometimes refuses to eat, but under Palliative treatment they will not force feed her. Is this the best approach to Lewy Body Dementia? Considering that the Parkinson's was misdiagnosed, should she get a second opinion? I live in a different country so do not see this first hand.

Sunnygirl1 Jul 2016
It seems that the decisions are being made by people that your parents appointed. And, would it matter what the cause of the condition is? Is there a way that she could be healed? If not, then I'm not sure how further testing would make a difference. Of course, you can share your concerns with the POA.

I'm not familiar with the conditions you post about. My loved one has Vascular Dementia. I hope others here will chime in. It's my understanding that often, the reason for a person's dementia cannot be precisely determined, except by autopsy. Before death the doctors can only run tests and based on them and the symptoms, make their diagnosis and prognosis.

gladimhere Jul 2016
I imagine that these are your mother's wishes per her Medical Directives. Have you seen them? It sounds as if your folks did very good end of life planning that also includes a DNR with instructions when and if a heart attack or stroke or anything else major happens to her.

ADVERTISEMENT


ADVERTISEMENT

Ask a Question

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter