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In reply to the discussion: I am still in a state of shock [View all]lunatica
(53,410 posts)I watched her like a hawk. I spent 10 hours a day with her and made sure she was comfortable, dry and fed. The only time I needed help from a nurse was when we would pull her sheet back up the bed because patients tend to slide down if they are in a semi upright position. The nurses were grateful I was there because they were overburdened with patients.
When she went into rehab she had a bed there. I did the same thing there. And I also took care of the comfort needs of other patients who shared a room with her.
Really, you cant rely on doctors and nurses who are overburdened and overworked and who see their patients for only a few minutes a day.
My mother passed on in 2010, after being bedridden for five years. The last few months she had palliative care. After years of being in bed she didnt have a single bed sore. Looking back on it I realize I was obsessed about her comfort and wellbeing. But I have never regretted it. I feel I was lucky to have been able to do it. I was able to retire early and use my retirement money along with hers to take care of her. When she died I went back to work and built up my social security benefits and pension which I live on now. I have no regrets.