Coroner's Finding: WEIR Maureen Mary

79y · Female·General inanition due to advanced vascular dementia on a background of ischaemic heart disease and chronic lymphatic leukaemia

Maureen Mary Weir, aged 79, died of general inanition due to advanced vascular dementia with background ischaemic heart disease and chronic lymphatic leukaemia. She was a resident at Kapara Nursing Home under a Guardianship Board order involving residential detention. In July 2014, following aggressive leukaemia transformation, she was placed on a Palliative Care Order with a do-not-resuscitate directive, with care transferred to Dr C. (palliative care expertise). On 1 October 2014, Dr C. identified terminal phase and implemented appropriate terminal phase management, consulting with family. Mrs Weir died peacefully on 3 October 2014 with nursing staff present. The coroner found all efforts had been made to ensure comfort in accordance with the palliative care plan. No clinical failings were identified. This case demonstrates appropriate end-of-life planning, timely palliative care transition, and family consultation in advanced dementia.