Hi there LG09 and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear about your grandfather's recent diagnosis and sudden deterioration, this must be a very tough time for all the family.

Do encourage your family to speak with the nurse or doctor looking after your grandfather in the hospice. They are the best position to say what they think may be causing this confusion and what they can do to help according to the cause.

There can be many reasons for confusion and change in personality of a patient towards the end of life. It can be due to the cancer itself, an infection, possible cancer spread to the brain, medication side effects or a build up of toxins in the body as the organs begin to shut down.

We have more information about managing symptoms including restlessness on our web pages, so do take a look. I appreciate how unsettling it can be to see a loved one like this and it can be difficult to know what to do to help them at the same time. When visiting your grandfather try and keep as calm as possible and speak to him in a quiet and gentle manner as this can help. However as I say the staff looking after him will be experienced with this type of symptom and can talk through what they can do as well as the family to also settle him. 

I hope this is helpful and that your grandfather is more comfortable very soon. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Best wishes

Naomi