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My 99year old greataunt is sleeping alot. It's not ...

Sent to Health Experts September 15 05:25 PM

My 99year old greataunt is sleeping alot. It's not unusual for her to go to bed say at 9pm on Monday night, sleep past 9pm the next night (which would be Tuesday night) and sleep all the way through til Wednesday morning. Is this normal for someone of that age? As far as background, she is still depressed over the loss of her husband of 59 yrs. in Nov.2004; Healthwise, she requires no medication, she still walks around the house with her walker,even outside on the deck in the sun, has all her own teeth, and can eat anything her heart desires. But her willingness to eat is diminishing,which bothers me. And she is showing signs of dementia.

 

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Female , Age: 99

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I was going to call a doctor to make a house call today, but if this is somewhat normal...

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $15
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September 15 8:17 PM (2 hours and 52 minutes and 21 seconds later)
         
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Hello,

It is not very normal unless she is coming to the end of her life then it would be.

It would be a good idea for her doctor to see her. It does sound very much like depression and she may be able to benefit from some medication. With the depression possibly causing all the sleeping, that means she is not getting in enough fluids and food so she may be dehydrated. A visit from a doctor could put your mind at ease as to how to care for her right now.

Please let me know if I can be of further help and I will be glad to!



Vicky B. RN

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Vicky B -- Nurse (RN) -- 100% Positive Feedback on 185 Health Accepts
Registered Nurse (pediatrics, home health), Internet Researcher, Caregiver, Mom for 17 years
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