End of Life Issues

End Stage Dementia The Last of the Three Stages of Dementia

The end stage of dementia is a difficult and challenging time for caregivers and their loved ones. In this blog post, we discuss the symptoms and changes that may occur during this stage, as well as the role of caregivers and the importance of end of life planning.

Diane Carbo

Oct 28, 2024 — 6 min read

End Stage of Dementia

The end stage of dementia is probably the most difficult of all of the three stages of dementia. This is the stage, when the care can become even more overwhelming.

By now, many caregivers are worn out and exhausted. This is the stage that many decide placement for the individual that they have been providing care. Quality of care, in individuals with end stage dementia, is probably the most important factor to a family member when deciding where these individuals should receive care.

If you are a family member that wants to maintain the person you are caring for at home, realize that the care will be more physically demanding than before. This commitment will require help from others; you may even consider non medical home health care or hospice or palliative care.

This is the stage when the brain has deteriorated and now the cognitive functions of the individual become almost non existent. This deterioration begins to affect other areas of the body and their functions. The physical body is now beginning to fail. Below are signs of dementia that may be exhibited. Remember, that based on the type of dementia will determine which of these signs and symptoms you will see.

Mental Changes During End Stage Dementia

Memory is severely impaired. Both short term and long term memory is lost.
Unlikely to understand or comprehend what others are saying.
Does not recognize familiar faces or even themselves in a mirror.
Unable to verbalize needs or thoughts. Speech may be garbled or non existent.

Personality Changes

Unable to smile or show enjoyment
May have unexplained periods of crying, sobbing or moaning
Startles easily

Behavior Problems

May sleep more or require medication to assist with sleep.
Appetite is poor. May start to have difficulty with swallowing or forget how to swallow. Maintaining weight is very difficult.
May respond to touch with cries or moans.
May grab onto something and not let go.

Changes in Abilities to Function During End Stage Dementia

Becomes totally dependant of care from others.
Balance and coordination become difficult. Becomes wheelchair or bed bound.
May be at risk for seizures.
Becomes incontinent of bowel and bladder.
Muscles become rigid and stiff.
Due to poor nutritional status and little to no ambulation, becomes prone to developing pneumonia, urinary tract infections, dehydration and pressure sores and skin tears.

Caregiver’s Role

Care will require total assistance of bathing, dressing, feeding, skin care and incontinence care.
Because skin is fragile, it is important to have assistance when moving or transferring from bed to chair.
Gently approach when entering the room to provide care. Even if you have been caring for this person for a long time, tell them who you are.
Be diligent about checking the skin, making sure to lotion the buttocks, heels and elbows.
Mouth care is very important as well. Chapstick on the lips to keep them from drying out.
Allow rest periods and naps.
Try to encourage fluids and eating. It is important to note that aspiration pneumonia is common, because of the swallowing difficulties. Ask for a Seech evaluation to teach you how to feed to decrease the chances of developing aspiration pneumonia.
Monitor the body for signs of infection. These may be flushed cheeks, running a fever, foul smelling urine. Be sure to ask the doctor what to look for as well.
Do not hesitate to ask for more help or assistance when needed.

If your goal is to maintain the individual at home, it is still wise to be open to moving to a facility if the job of dealing with end stage dementia becomes too much. There is always respite care as well.

Disease Progression in Late Stage Alzheimer's Disease

Experimental edit. To me this feels like soulmates touching after death. — *Family Caregivers in the Late Stages of Dementia*

The final stage of dementia is a difficult time for both the patient and their loved ones. By this point, the condition has progressed significantly, and many of the most profound symptoms will be present. These might include decreased cognitive ability, loss of physical functions such as walking or swallowing, changes in behavior and communication, increased confusion and memory lapses, and decreased awareness of surroundings.

This is a difficult time for all involved, but there are ways to provide care that can make the patient more comfortable. Involvement of family members may be beneficial in helping to provide physical care and emotional support. Simple tasks like changing positions frequently, providing nourishing meals, talking with the patient, reminding them of important events, and offering physical contact can all be beneficial. Additionally, providing a safe and calm environment, including music therapy, aromatherapy, or massage can help the patient feel more relaxed.

As with any stage of dementia care, it is important to work closely with a healthcare professional in order to ensure that all necessary steps are being taken for the best possible outcome for the patient. With proper care and support from loved ones, those suffering from late stage dementia can enjoy a quality life despite their condition.

There is no cure for late stage dementia, but there are effective treatments available to help manage the symptoms of the disease. These treatments can include medication, lifestyle changes, and therapies such as art or music therapy that may help improve quality of life. Additionally, it is important to provide emotional support and understanding for the patient, which can be a great source of comfort during this difficult time. With proper care and understanding, those with dementia can enjoy a better quality of life despite their condition.

*Alzheimer's Disease Progresses into Final Stage*

By understanding the changes associated with end stage dementia and taking appropriate measures to provide care, it is possible to ensure that the patient has the best quality of life possible. With patience and understanding from loved ones, those suffering from late stage dementia can find comfort despite their condition

No matter what stage of dementia someone is in, it is important to make sure they are receiving the best care possible to ensure they have a quality life. With proper care and understanding, those suffering from late stage dementia can find comfort despite their condition

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Have more questions? Check out the Frequently Asked Question section of the website. You will find a lot of different questions answered directly.

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Preplanning Funeral Arrangements for End of Life Planning

I hope that I have presented you with enough information to make educated decisions about future care.