Nann846, it is tough when we see our love ones not wanting to eat or drink... it is just natural to think that eating is the cure all to making someone better.
Your Grandmother is 96 years old, she's lived a very long life, and think about all the wonderful changes that happen and items that were invented that we take for granted today. Grandmother is tired, and it is normal for her body to start to shut down.
One could try baby food but if she refuses it, it is everyone's clue that Grandmother's stomach is now becoming very uncomfortable taking in any food. It all part of the progress of her final chapter. Some elders will start coughing while eating or drinking, that is another sign which is aspiration where food/water is getting into the lungs.
One could also try liquid Boost or a similar product. My Mom liked that but only if it was in a cup with ice.
You certainly can offer baby food or puree any food and offer but don't force. make sure she is able to swallow. Taste the baby food before you offer because i have been told adults do not find it very palatable due to lack of salt and sweetening. Sips of water or ice chips may be all she needs at this point. To crush ice put ice cubes in a clean dish towel and hit them against the wall.
Baby food is fine if she will eat it. If her body is shutting down, chances are she will not want much food. Is she living at home? Does she have any assistance from a home health group?
Your Grandmother is 96 years old, she's lived a very long life, and think about all the wonderful changes that happen and items that were invented that we take for granted today. Grandmother is tired, and it is normal for her body to start to shut down.
One could try baby food but if she refuses it, it is everyone's clue that Grandmother's stomach is now becoming very uncomfortable taking in any food. It all part of the progress of her final chapter. Some elders will start coughing while eating or drinking, that is another sign which is aspiration where food/water is getting into the lungs.
One could also try liquid Boost or a similar product. My Mom liked that but only if it was in a cup with ice.
Sips of water or ice chips may be all she needs at this point. To crush ice put ice cubes in a clean dish towel and hit them against the wall.