As a progressive neurodegenerative condition, Alzheimer’s Dementia can persist for a considerable duration, often ranging between 10 to 15 years. The severity of the disease varies widely over this time span, with individuals gradually losing their cognitive and physical abilities.
When a person reaches the end stage of Alzheimer’s Dementia, they generally require hospice care. By the time a hospice nurse becomes involved, the patient is often entirely bed bound. This advanced stage is characterized by a complete dependency on caregivers for all daily living activities, such as bathing, changing clothes, and feeding.
Furthermore, the susceptibility to infections increases substantially in patients with Alzheimer’s Dementia as the disease progresses. Toward the end of life, it is common to see conditions like aspiration pneumonias, where patients choke on food and subsequently develop pneumonia. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also frequent occurrences, primarily due to prolonged immobility and diminished immune function.
These aspects present a holistic overview of Alzheimer’s Dementia in its terminal stage, underlining the significant challenges it poses for both patients and their caregivers.