My mother recently moved in with my family after being in the hospital and nursing center for over 2 months. Her oncologist has prescribed an anti-depressant and I need help in how to discuss this with my mother. I haven't told her that her doctor has prescribed the Rx and I know she doesn't like taking them because of being on them in the past. What is the best approach for this discussion. Should I not tell her or have the discussion and have her not take it. She has exhibited depression symptoms ove the last several months.
What struck me about your question was honoring your mothers dignity. You know her better than anyone. Of course she is depressed, anyone would be under her circumstances. But you are willing to give her a choice and for that you get kudos.
Yes, I would talk with her about it. Sounds as if she will give you an honest answer. Let us know the outcome of this. God Bless
Now when the hospital said they would try their best and gave her megace (induces appetite), they said if she still didn't eat, being she's coherent, there was nothing I could do even as her Power of Attorney - it was still her choice in the end. Now if she had been declared incompetent, then it may be another matter. Fortunately, we did not have to go that route.
Do everything possible. That way at least in your mind you can say, "I did all I could do. I cannot help her choices from there."
Caregiving.... the difficult choices in life aren't they?
Its a tough choice, but its one you have to be able to live with the rest of your life as well.