Dad cannot clear his own secretions. advanced dementia, 85 yrs old. at times coughs hard and thick saliva comes out.. for 8 mnths..is he dying? helpme

Seek help: You need to take dad to the dr. And get him help. A good exam and discussion will go a long way to hopefully starting a process that may include home health aids, or home care to assist you in his care. As dementia worsens, there may need to be a discussion to get dad into nursing home or place with skilled level care. Best wishes to you in these difficult times.

My dad...: Went through the same thing. The secretion being coughed up is more than likely fluid that can't be pump out of the lungs and so it builds up in the lower respiratory system and then is expelled via the upper respiratory system. It is probably cardiovascular. Only way to know for sure is to check with doc. It sounds like he has lived long good life. I wish you and your father the best.