It’s been so hard over the last 4 years to get my Mum to accept she needs help . She is 93 , and her dementia means she has lost the ability or understanding about washing and keeping herself clean . Finally she was admitted to a wonderful nursing home 6 weeks ago and we’ve been told she is at the start of palliative care. I’m finding it so impossible to get a grip on what that means - 6 weeks? 6 months ? More ? I know it’s impossible to say but also so hard to cope with.
Anyone in a similar situation? Any tips ? Thanks
1 Like
Why not have a chat with the staff at the nursing home ? Im no expert but when my mum was put under a palliative care team i did some research and there is no timescale for palliative care - its NOT the same as “end of life” care. It just means the approach is treating the symptoms of whatever condition/illness someone has to make them more comfortable. So palliative care can in theory be ongoing for many years. Best wishes 
Thank you for that x
Yes the Palliative care team at the Nursing home said exactly what you have said . But you have explained it more clearly!
I’ve been signed off work for a month and woke up this morning for the first time in ages with no pressure on me - to work , dealing with vulnerable people, support my family and of course housework ! Sometimes you don’t know you need a break til you are forced to stop x
It must have been so hard if you could see your mum needed extra care but she wouldnt accept it. 
You might find your body crashes now if it realises it can take a breather - take good care of yourself in your time off
1 Like
Thank you - I appreciate your kindness. Yes it’s been difficult for the last 4 years ! But I think the key thing is accepting the reality of palliative care as you say - there is no time scale as it is not end of life . I am just so so relieved not to be at work and I will do my best to take care of myself first - for a change .
I hope you are ok . My Father died of MND some time ago and I know how hard bereavement can be .
1 Like
Hey! I know the term ‘palliative care’ is scary! My dad was on it and he lived 2 years.