Page 11 - Demo

8 Your Loved One%u2019s CareMYTHWhen loved ones refuse food and liquid and we do not provide a feeding tube or IV fluids, we are letting them starve to death.FACTAs death nears, a patient%u2019s disinterest in food or drink is a natural, self-protective mechanism. As the body%u2019s systems slow down, digestive and elimination systems cannot keep pace. Forcing food or fluids may cause discomfort or other complications.%u2022 Liquid meals are often best when the person is nauseated or in pain; for example, soups, shakes, yogurt, ice cream, cool drinks, etc.%u2022 Ice chips, flavored and unflavored, relieve the feelings of dryness and discomfort when the person no longer wants to eat or drink.%u2022 A heating dish (like those used for baby foods) helps keep small amounts warm without much kitchen preparation.%u2022 Baby foods sometimes satisfy the need for soft, bland foods that can be made appetizing with spices and seasonings.%u2022 A travel mug with a lid or a closed container with a straw enables the weak person to drink independently without worry or spillage.%u2022 Protein supplements bought over the counter such as %u201cEnsure%u201d are often welltolerated. Please follow manufacturer%u2019s instructions for storage and handling.%u2022 Instant breakfast mixes can easily serve as a full meal.%u2022 Cooler foods are often more easy to tolerate when a person is nauseated.You may avoid this struggle by allowing your loved one to eat what he or she wants. %u2022 When faced with an advanced or serious illness, individuals begin adjusting the priorities of their lives and may desire to spend energy on activity and relationships rather than on food. %u2022 Our bodies are much wiser than we give them credit for and will give us messages about what we need to do to sustain life. %u2022 Terminally ill persons facing the end of their lives may no longer be able to benefit from the sustaining value of food. %u2022 Many times the disease process affects taste buds and will make foods taste bland, salty, or sour. %u2022 Some medications may also alter the way food tastes.