Six key signs someone with dementia is nearing the end of their life
The average life expectancy for those diagnosed with dementia varies, according to the Alzheimer's Society — it can be incredibly difficult to discern when a person with dementia is nearing the end of their life.
But six symptoms of the disease, when they become prominent, could be integral indicators of impending death.
Dementia is defined as "the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities," according to the National Institute on Aging.
A person diagnosed with dementia can experience intense, uncontrollable emotions and a shift in personality.
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In general, dementia patients who start lacking the ability to care for themselves could be nearing death (Getty Images)Millions around the world suffer from dementia, especially those who are aged 85 or older. Seniors, or those 65 and older, are most susceptible. Alzheimer's disease is a common form of dementia.
Those with severe dementia usually require help completing basic life tasks, including feeding themselves.
The following six symptoms of the disease, however, are generally indicators of a fast-approaching death
The six key signs
- Single-word speech or unintelligible phrases
- Little understanding of what is being said to them
- Need for assistance with basic tasks and help with everyday activities
- Difficulty swallowing or eating less
- Incontinence of the bowel or bladder
- Difficulty or inability to walk, stand or sit up and becoming bed-bound.
"If a person with dementia has most or all of these symptoms, they are probably nearing the end of their life," the Alzheimer's Society states. Those six symptoms are also often associated with frailty, frequent recurring infections or bedsores.
As a dementia patient comes within hours or days of death, many of the symptoms worsen, and the following may be experienced on top of the existing ones.
Worsening signs
- Quick deterioration
- Loss of consciousness
- Inability to swallow
- Agitation and restlessness
- Irregular breathing patterns
- Rattling sounds when breathing
- Cold hands and feet
The Alzheimer's Society said patients often remain unaware of those symptoms.
As a dementia patient nears death, healthcare professionals can work with their families to ensure they understand what's happening and then prescribe medications to help ease their pain.
Other conditions, like pneumonia or heart conditions, can creep in and kill the patient before the dementia, however, as the disease often weakens their bodies and immune systems. Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in dementia patients because of that.
Dementia is a tricky disease that impacts family members just as much as the patients as they learn to navigate caring for their disabled loved ones.
"Knowing when a person with dementia is nearing the end of their life can help with giving them the right care," the Alzheimer's Society concludes.
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