Feeding Tube Care

Deciding whether to use a feeding tube is a complex matter, especially for older patients. Family caregivers should understand why and when tube feeding is appropriate in case they must make this choice for their loved one someday.

Selecting a course of action at the end of life can be a complex task, but it must be done. Often a new diagnosis is the instigating factor in formally deciding on a plan.This can include a DNR, advance directive, living will, and/or VSED.

Tests, treatments and medications are supposed to make people healthier, but when it comes to medical care for seniors, less is more in most cases.

A gastric feeding tube represents one way to nourish dementia-stricken elders who lose the ability to eat. However, research indicates that many doctors are not having discussions with caregivers regarding the pros and cons of feeding tube insertion.