What Are The Final Stages Of Dementia?

By

final stages of dementia

So, what exactly are the final stages of dementia? Dementia is progressive in how it affects a person’s brain. More importantly, how it affects their mental abilities. The World Health Organization estimates 50 million people have dementia worldwide. Additionally, 10 million new cases develop each year. The dementia experience for each person is different and understanding what happens in the final stages is important. Many things factor into how it develops and progresses to the final stages of dementia.

The final stages of dementia

There are three stages of dementia: early/mild, middle/moderate, and late/severe. Professionals also use the Global Deterioration Scale for Assessment of Primary Degenerative Dementia. This scale is the most common way professionals break down the final stages of dementia. The scale breaks dementia down into seven different stages. It begins with a mentally healthy person with no memory loss. Each stage consisting of emerging symptoms and memory deficits. Dementia's last stage consists of losing the ability to communicate and eat/drink. Additionally, seniors lose the ability to use their psychomotor skills.

What are the late-stage dementia symptoms?

Symptoms of the late stages of dementia may vary from person to person. This especially depends on the type of dementia a person is experiencing. Yet, common dementia symptoms are eating and swallowing difficulties, and incontinence issues. Seniors may also experience drowsiness, weight loss, weakened immune system, and difficulty walking. Additionally, speech and communication become limited, and they have severe loss of memory. Late stage dementia caregiving focuses more so on the quality of life.

Caring for someone in the final stages of dementia

Early screening and monitoring allows you to stay prepared. This early detection allows you to get all affairs in order before the person is unable to weigh in. By having a care plan in place, you avoid the need to make quick decisions and can rest assured in their care choices. Keep quality of life at the forefront of every decision made. 
 
As dementia progresses, care needs grow, and it may extend beyond what home care provides. As time goes on, around the clock care is necessary as the body shuts down. Caring for your loved one can be painful and difficult, especially as their memory of you fades. During this time, you want to show love and relate to them in the best way you can. Share old memories, tell stories, listen to music they love, and be there for them.

Support for Dementia

There are many great resources for seniors and families in the final stages of dementia. This include Hospice Care, the Alzheimer’s Association, and choosing the right retirement communities, like Renaissance Village.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is available to those with a life expectancy of six months or fewer. But, due to the nature of dementia, it can be difficult to determine this expectancy. In this case, there are other ways to decide whether hospice is a viable option for someone with dementia. Such as using the Functional Assessment Staging scale. This scale compares a person’s current behavior to their behavior before dementia. It also takes into consideration other illnesses the person is currently experiencing. Additionally, hospice professionals are well-versed on expectations in this stage of life.

Alzheimer's & Dementia Support

The Alzheimer’s Association is an advocate for people with alzheimers and dementia. They also have support available for families and caregivers. This organization has a supportive community with many opportunities to come together. They run a 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900) for those needing help. The helpline offers knowledgeable professionals. They also offer resources for locating support groups in your area.
 
Renaissance Village also offers monthly educational seminars about dementia. Call the community or check out our location pages to view our monthly calendars and events.

Memory Care at Renaissance Villages

Renaissance Villages understands the struggles you and your family encounter with dementia. We are here to support your loved one and family through everything you face. Memory Care at Renaissance Villages empowers residents to thrive through minimized barriers. Call now or schedule your tour today to learn more about our Memory Care living option.
Learn More About Memory Care

Great Days Await at Renaissance Villages!

contact us today to schedule a tour

Murrieta:
(951) 319-8243