So sorry I never saw this message. My father was ill and died - did not visit the forum for a few months. Yes, my friend is still with me - 6 years in my home, 4 years on a vent. She is quite paralyzed now - can move her hand less than 2 inches - but enough to signal me. Only her eyes move other than that. She still has a radiant smile, though.
Just for info - the vent is not so difficult for me - the caregiving problem is total lack of any communication or movement. I have help 10 hours a day - I do all of the nights. Once you find willing help (I have trained 2 people, one a CNA, one a former truck driver, now a CNA) things can be OK, although I have rarely left my home in 6 years.
One more thing - Pat, my PALS was never upset with the vent - never was afraid, felt tied down or unbearably dependent.
As for depression - our big breakthrough turned out to be Neurontin at night (300 mg) and Ativan (1/2 mg) 3X per day. Sha also takes Ambien to sleep at night. Beth
Just for info - the vent is not so difficult for me - the caregiving problem is total lack of any communication or movement. I have help 10 hours a day - I do all of the nights. Once you find willing help (I have trained 2 people, one a CNA, one a former truck driver, now a CNA) things can be OK, although I have rarely left my home in 6 years.
One more thing - Pat, my PALS was never upset with the vent - never was afraid, felt tied down or unbearably dependent.
As for depression - our big breakthrough turned out to be Neurontin at night (300 mg) and Ativan (1/2 mg) 3X per day. Sha also takes Ambien to sleep at night. Beth