For the past several weeks, Mother’s breathing has grown shallower and faster, and she can’t catch her breath. I am told this is called “air hunger.” Her heart is racing, and it is difficult for her to rest lying down. Mother uses oxygen continuously, and she continues to be severely disoriented.
So today hospice arranged for a hospital bed to be delivered.
Once made up the bed does not look that different from a traditional twin bed, but hidden under the foot are the controls that raise and lower its sections. We made the bed and set the top at a thirty degree angle, about what we thought would be comfortable for Mother when she next rested.
The bed was a good decision. Mother got in and almost smiled as she lay there. We are wondering if she will be more rested after a night of sleeping in this new bed.
As Our Parents Age So Do We 