My mother (91 years) is in the last stages of her life and barely eating 500 calories a day. Sometimes she won't eat at all for one or two meals then will start eating again. She is unable to walk or stand by herself and unable to feed herself. We use a hoyer lift to move her. Her doctor has prescribed an appitite stimulant but I feel that will just prolong what is a very poor quality life. She is not in pain and has around the clock help. Does anyone have an idea if life is sustainable and for how long on 500 calories?
Johnny999

I'm not sure about the calories, but if I remember correctly someone can live several weeks without eating as long as they are receiving adequate fluids. It is also my understanding that people in the last stages of AD lose their ability to digest and use food. At this stage making them eat can actually be painful for them. I would just continue offering food and drink in case she wants it otherwise don't force her.
Hugs,
Mariellen

I tried to find this answer on the web but could not find a firm number. I believe it must be in the 1000 calorie range, but for someone who is immoble, it is likely less. The best indicator would be if she is losing weight.

In general, a person can live a very long time without eating but hydration is another issue. With out taking fluids, a person will live only a week to 10 days.

A nurse at the local Alzheimers has seen people exist for a very long time on only nutritional suppliments, the only thing some people with dementia will consume in late stage. Suppliments can be thickened with baby cerial if needed (Much better than thicket, which doesn't taste very good)

Please read the following article. Make sure she is getting medical grade, high calorie suppliments.
FAQ29 - Dealing with Poor Appetite
http://www.prohealth.com/alzheimers/blog/boardDetail.cfm?id=58194#58262




[This Message was Edited on 09/16/2009]

No one can predict the course of this disease-she could sit up and take 3 meals a day plus snacks tomorrow. Have you thought about hospice at this time? They do a VERY good job of supporting the family and managing any symptoms during the dying process.