Alzheimer’s is a disease that has no known cure and is characterized by severe cognitive decline. This condition is often called “the long goodbye” because of the drawn-out nature of the illness and the pain and sadness experienced by the patient and their family and friends. People are often consumed with fear about how long they have before Alzheimer’s takes its final toll, and although it is difficult to predict how long the late stages of the disease will last, the average timeframe seems to be between one to three years.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease will lower the ultimate lifespan of the patient, but their impact is dependent on various additional factors as well. For instance, your loved one may be dealing with another chronic illness, and if they are living with a life-altering condition in addition to Alzheimer’s – such as heart disease or cancer – their lifespan may be adversely impacted further. Put another way; they may succumb naturally to a different illness before Alzheimer’s disease progresses into the late stages. Also, when someone is in the final stages of Alzheimer’s and is not receiving proper care, related circumstances such as improper nutrition, poor hygiene, or medication mismanagement may lead to a shorter lifespan.
What Family Can Expect in the Late Stages
The final stage of Alzheimer’s, or end-stage dementia, is characterized by severe cognitive decline. This phase will affect your loved one in various ways, including:
- 100% dependence on caregivers for the most basic tasks, such as eating, drinking, sitting up, or walking
- Complete incontinence and loss of control of the bladder and bowel
- Total memory loss
- Crippling anxiety and deep confusion or disorientation
- Severely diminished speech capability, generally reduced to single words or stunted phrases
- Lack of comprehension or understanding in conversation
- Increased vulnerability to infection and viruses, especially pneumonia
Just how quickly the phases of dementia happen varies depending on the patient. Every individual may not experience the same challenges at any given stage.
How is Late-Stage Dementia or Alzheimer’s Treated?
Treatment of Alzheimer’s may vary depending on what caused the condition in the first place. Any type of dementia caused by a vitamin deficiency can generally be cured. Depression can be mitigated with therapy and prescription medications. Dementia with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) as its root cause can be treated with medication as well.
However, there is no known way to slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s. Some prescription medications can work to manage symptoms such as memory loss and confusion temporarily, while additional non-pharmaceutical solutions may improve the quality of life. These include:
- Preserving the comfort of the patient
- Being patient and exhibiting understanding when responding to behaviors
- Having strategies to cope with outbursts of anger and agitation
- Distracting the patient when fixated
- Creating a serene atmosphere
- Ensuring safe and secure physical surroundings
- Enrolling in a dementia support group
Memory Care Options
Caring for a spouse or family member with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be exhausting in every way – both physically and emotionally. If you have been a caregiver at home but are finding it too hard to navigate through the late stages of Alzheimer’s, a memory care facility may be an appropriate solution. These residences are managed by caring professionals who are adept and experienced in dementia care. Many families discover that their relationship with their family members is easier once the stress of caring for them is removed.
A Banyan Residence provides a continuum of care, beginning with assisted living and progressing, if necessary, into memory care at the same facility. If you are looking for assistance with your aging loved one, call us today for a tour.
