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Welcome to Forum, Henry.
I know that you understand, that at this age, your mom may be closing in on the end of life, as that's where you have posted this. Have you any questions for us?
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Reply to AlvaDeer
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Henryapple Sep 14, 2025
I am wondering if my mom is getting close to death? I live 90 miles away and I want to be with her when she passes. I don’t know if she is having ups and downs or is she close to dying.
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Mom's hospice nurse would be the one to pose this question to Henry. 90 miles is not THAT far away. Why not pay mom a visit and sit with her awhile before she passes? Better to have a living memory of her.

Good luck to you.
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Reply to lealonnie1
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Henryapple Sep 14, 2025
Inconsiderate of you to say that. I go all the time to see my mother.
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I would advise you to speak with the hospice staff. They can provide more valuable information.

I wish you peace and strength during this difficult time.
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Reply to AMZebbC
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I’ve heard others describe this stage, and it can be a natural part of the body slowing down near the end of life. Often, when a loved one stops wanting food or drink and prefers to stay in bed, it’s the body’s way of preparing to let go. Hospice staff can usually guide you through what changes to expect and how to keep your mom comfortable. It’s heartbreaking, but you’re not alone — many families have walked this path. Lean on hospice and take care of yourself, too
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Reply to TenderStrength5
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Hospice is end of life care. A doctor has to feel a person will pass within six months to get Hospice in, some do live longer. This is a question for the Hospice Nurse.

With my Mom, she closed her eyes and wouldn't open them. Then she would not get out of bed. I was told Dr wanted to do a swallow test, I said no, time for Hospice. Not being able to swallow is first sign the body is shutting down. She passed a week later. She was 89.
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Please continue to offer food and drink. Offer do not force.
Sleeping a lot is common. It is one of the things that Hospice will look at when recertifying a person on Hospice. It is one of the things that may qualify a person for Hospice.
If you have any questions about some of the things to look for at EOL (End of Life) talk to the Hospice Nurse or CNA.
Some of the things to look for would be
Changes in breathing
Changes in the color of the skin particularly the feet and legs and the back. (if the circulation is poor lower extremities and the back is where blood will pool under the skin.)
Be aware of any Pressure sores they can develop very quickly.
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