Final Stages of Alzheimers

Facts

Millions of Americans suffer from Alzheimer's disease. The vast majority of these individuals are over the age of 65 but younger-onset Alzheimer's disease can strike individuals who are in their 30s. Treatments available only address the symptoms of the disease; they do not stop or delay its progression and there is no cure.

The final stage of Alzheimer's disease can last anywhere from three months to three years before death occurs. During the final stage of Alzheimer's disease, the individual can no longer meet any of his own basic needs and depends on family, friends and caretakers to take care of him.

End-Stage Symptoms

By the final stage of Alzheimer's disease, the individual has lost the ability to communicate and even the ability to smile. While he may utter understandable words and phrases occasionally, it is the exception rather than the norm and is not willfully done.

Further, the individual will no longer be able to tend to her own toileting needs and will be incontinent with her bladder and bowels. She will no longer be able to bathe, brush her teeth, brush her hair or dress herself. She will depend on family, friends and caretakers to complete these tasks.

The individual in the final stage of Alzheimer's will no longer be able to control his movements. If he can still walk, he will need assistance (most people in this stage will be wheelchair-bound or bedridden).

In this late stage, she will also no longer be able to hold her head up independently, and due to muscle atrophy, she will have difficulty swallowing, requiring a diet of pureed foods. She will need others to feed her.

A person in the the last stage of Alzheimer's is no longer able to communicate the fact that she doesn't feel well and must be monitored on a daily basis by family, caregivers and friends for any signs of illness or pain. Fever, appearing pale and changes in behavior are all signs of a potential infection or illness.

Hospice

Doctors determine the appropriateness of hospice care by observing several factors. Not being able to communicate in a meaningful way and no longer being able to walk are criteria doctors use to determine when to order hospice care. A third factor is if the person is diagnosed with a dementia-related health issue, such as aspiration pneumonia, urinary tract infections and weight loss.

When hospice care becomes necessary, family members face making decisions about resuscitation orders (DNRs), feeding tubes and ventilators. Hospice care, after all, focuses on end-of-life comfort, not prolonging life. Ideally, though, it's best to make these decisions upon the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.