what to expect now ????

I am sad to say that I am here because I don't know what to expect now. My father in law has had Parkinson's for 15+ years.

He has been going to a nursing home once a month to give my mother in law a break. Last week he was there and became very disoriented, agitated, screaming for whiskey, and talking of suicide. They had to tie him into a wheelchair. He doesn't walk well anyways. He wears depends, and uses a walker. They called and said to my mom in law. Its time for a permanent nursing home solution.

My husband and I are living in Northern Ab ,,,3000+ kms away from them. We have been here for two years now and with this news we are struggling with the guilt that comes with being posted away.

I guess in my own mind its hard to see such a proud dutch heritage man dwindle away. His pride and stubborness :) has kept this man going for so long. He was honored in a ceremony for the over $100,000.00 he has collected over the years for the superwalk. It brings tears to my eyes to know him and know how hard this is for him. The swallowing of all of this has taken its toll.

I wouldn't be naive to assume someone can tell me how long he has to live but I am sure that someone might be able to give me an idea regarding how long or how fast stages develope. I know its different for everyone. With the cost of travel and expenses we have to start considering what to do if and when he passes from this disease.

Please , what is generally the life expectancy of someone at this stage. Actually how many stages are there?

You see my confusion, I feel disoriented just asking the questions. Perhaps they should have been asked sooner.

Thanks for taking the time to read this message. I look forward to future correspondence with you all

Sincerely

Debora

Thank you Minmark. Last week was scary for everyone and even just writing that post made me feel better. Already my mother in law has tried to justify that maybe someone didn't give the meds right and its because of that. However I think the nursing home at this point is the only option as she is in her 70's and wouldn't be able to handle him if he loses control again. Sure wish we could do something to help. In any case I am grateful to have come here and wrote what was happening.

Once again , thanks

Hello,

I too am very sad. My Mom is 75 and has had PD for the past 3 years. She is now in the final stage and our family had Hospice come in 2 months ago. Her kidneys are beginning to fail and she has contracted a staph infection which is sure to bring on the pneumonia. She continues to have small strokes and seldom ever recognizes my father or my two sisters. She eats very little and prefers only liquids. My sisters, nephew and I take turns staying at night, we have done so since March 4th. She seems to have shown all signs of impending death but continues to hang on. I am so sad, especially for my dad who is already grief stricken and wants to live only as long as she does. We have a very close family and still it is so hard to deal with. I too would like to know when this will all be over with, I know only God has the answer.