loss of chewing ability

[ellenop118]

My father is in the final stages of dementia. He can no longer hold anything or walk. He quit speaking about 4 years ago. I just was recently told that he no longer chews. This has been for about 6 weeks. His food is thickened so he can swallow it. He has lost about 20 pounds in 5 months. His albumin level is 2.7, and 2.5 is sometimes the criteria for hospice care. My question is, how much longer before he loses his ability to swallow? He has aspirated a few times, but no pneumonia, even though there is fluid in his lungs. I would appreciate any help anyone can give me, any time guidelines, though I know each case is different. I have children and a very stressful job and live far away, and it is hard to be there until close to his death. Thank you all so much.

[margypops]

I am so sorry it is so hard isnt it, this isnt an expert forum but perhaps there are some members may have an answer for you, you could also try one of the expert/Doctor forums.