"This is one of the trickiest diaries I've ever recorded" - son Andrew talks emotionally about his Mum's sudden decline

Available for over a year

Andrew talks emotionally about this being ".. one of the trickiest diaries I've ever recorded". Mum's condition has declined sharply over the last fortnight. A flurry of calls to her son is an indication that the carers are concerned. She's eating and drinking less and sleeping more. After spending most of Saturday with her, he decides to call the surgery first thing on Monday morning. A GP makes a home visit later that day. Mum's heartrate, temperature and blood oxygen levels are normal. An upset Andrew has to face up to the fact that it's time to prepare for her death. The doctor writes a prescription for end of life medicines (including pain relief and a sedative), which can be delivered by a district nurse if they're needed. He's told that - because she's still strong in mind and body - she could carry on for days, weeks or months. Mum and Me: The Dementia Diary was originally broadcast on BBC Radio Leeds.