My viewpoint, as I caretake a 99 yo dad, is that the “ledge of life” is very narrow in normal circumstances, but at such an advanced age (she’s 96), it doesn’t take much to knock someone off that ledge. I told the doctor this about a month ago and he just nodded. Later, as I was going out the door, he stopped me and said “what you said .... very very true”.
Dad survived his issue (although I did make pre-need funeral plans) and I wish the Queen the best as well; however, realistically, losing her husband of 70 years just over a year ago (and it appeared to be a love match) will take the stuffing out of anyone. Whatever you think of the monarchy, she’s also devoted her life to her job from a very early age - I would imagine she’s pretty worn out with it all. She’s obviously “in decline”. I hope she slips away peacefully .... Prince Philip is waiting.
Yes,”I Vow to thee my Country” could have been written for her.
I was guardian for three aunts and uncles, my mom, my mother in law, and a couple other elders in my life.
No matter the situation, we learned to heed the quiet comments from the nurses and doctors in charge of their medical care. Those front line folks have seen the process hundreds of times. When they say, “you should consider….”, you should listen.
If you are “involved” these folks are your allies. For a lot of drop-in caregivers, they think these caregivers are just trying to turn over the bed for the next cash cow. I despise the drop-in relatives.