At the CHEMED Event 2026, Rabbi Asher Millman delivered a meaningful presentation on the complex medical and halachic issues that arise when caring for elderly patients with dementia.
The speech began with a strong halachic discussion about the responsibility to preserve life while carefully evaluating each patient’s true clinical condition. Rabbi Millman emphasized that dementia care cannot be approached with broad assumptions or automatic conclusions. Rather, every case requires careful reassessment, especially when there may be reversible medical issues contributing to decline.
He highlighted that PEG feeding should not be viewed negatively or dismissed reflexively. In many cases, especially when poor intake is contributing to weakness, dehydration, or decline, PEG feeding can improve comfort, stability, and overall quality of life. Improved nutrition and hydration may meaningfully improve a patient’s condition and allow for better overall care.
The presentation stressed the importance of individualized, goal-oriented decision-making, guided by both sound medical judgment and halachic values. Rabbi Millman called for thoughtful conversations with families, clear clinical assessment, and avoidance of both unnecessary aggressive intervention and premature therapeutic nihilism.
The event concluded with a strong and engaging Q&A, where participants raised practical questions about dementia, nutrition, hydration, PEG placement, end-of-life decision-making, and the role of halacha in guiding these difficult choices.