News Room
Medical Decision Making for People with Advanced Dementia
Wednesday October 1, 2008
Scarborough, Maine—The Southern Maine Agency on Aging announces an afternoon for family caregivers with Elizabeth Hart, MD, a geriatric physician.
Wednesday October 15 from 1 - 4 PM
136 US Route One, Scarborough
Free but space is limited, so please pre-register by calling Kate at 396-6558 or toll-free, 1-800-427-7411 ext. 558.
Email kdulac@smaaa.org
The session is aimed primarily at family and friends who are assisting someone with dementia. Professionals are welcome to register and attend as space permits.
Dr. Hart has extensive experience working with people who have dementia and their families. This interactive discussion will address the most common anticipated paths at the end of life and the dying process for people with dementia. Dr. Hart will discuss the concerns that may come up in making decisions for care in hopes that planning ahead can lessen family stress and assure that final wishes will be honored.
Some of the topics to be discussed include:
- Advanced Directives and Powers of Attorney;
- Artificial hydration and nutrition;
- CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation);
- Antibiotic treatment and hospitalization;
- Care options for late stages;
- “Dying in place;”
- The responsibilities and roles of “proxy” decision makers who are speaking on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves.
Dr. Hart practices with Maine General Health Associates in Augusta. This presentation is co-sponsored by the Office of Elder Services, DHHS with funding from the Administration on Aging.
