Angels on Earth

“It may be time to get hospice involved,” the nurse at Mom’s facility told me.

Wait. What? “But isn’t that for people who are about to die? Mom has Alzheimer’s, but physically she’s healthier than I am!”

The nurse explained that Mom met the criteria for hospice because she had experienced some weight loss, even though death was not imminent.

That was three years ago and hospice is still involved. They come by two or three times a week to check her vitals, bathe her and make sure she is getting the care she needs. Her weight has remained stable throughout these years.

The hospice chaplain visits weekly. He sometimes plays his guitar and they sing hymns together. He calls to update me after his visits and we commiserate or laugh together, depending on how the day went. Our particular hospice will bring gifts, schedule hand massages, offer pet therapy and celebrate special occasions.

They are truly angels on earth. I have yet to meet anybody dealing with Alzheimer’s who is aware that this resource might be available to their loved one. See if your loved one is eligible!