As Alzheimer’s disease progresses to its later stages, the challenges of caregiving can intensify. Your loved ones also develop a lot of memory-related issues that make regular day-to-day tasks seem like a challenge.
Through this blog, we are going to guide you in navigating the significant changes that occur during this difficult period. By understanding the evolving needs of your loved one and implementing practical strategies, you can approach this journey with greater confidence and provide continued comfort and support.
Phases of Dementia
Each form of dementia progresses differently. While there’s no one-size-fits-all path, there are generally three stages that people with dementia can experience.
- Early Stage: Subtle changes frequently occur during this phase. Occasionally, you or your loved one may detect signs of amnesia, such as missing keys or difficulty recalling recent events. Although daily tasks may become more difficult, independence is still achievable in general.
- Middle Stage: As dementia worsens, daily tasks get harder. Everyday chores like cleaning, dressing, and money management might become challenging. It’s possible that you or your loved one needs extra help and support with everyday tasks.
- Last Stage: Dementia can significantly affect day-to-day functioning as it reaches its last stages. It is normal to require assistance with eating, moving about, and communicating, and both cognitive and physical capacities may deteriorate. Both the dementia patient and their loved ones may be going through a trying experience at this point.
It’s critical to keep in mind that every person’s experience with dementia is different and that these are only broad descriptions. For individualized advice and assistance, please contact a healthcare provider if you have concerns about yourself or a loved one.
Signs of Late-Stage Dementia
As the disease reaches its late stages, the individual’s needs become more complex and demanding. Daily activities that were once manageable, like eating or walking, become increasingly challenging.
- People with late-stage Alzheimer’s often experience difficulty swallowing and chewing, making it hard for them to consume food safely and adequately. This can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, requiring assistance with feeding and specialized dietary plans.
- They become much less mobile and may eventually become completely unable to walk, so they require ongoing care and monitoring to keep them safe from falls.
- In addition, the person becomes totally dependent on others to do basic personal care activities, including dressing, bathing, and using the restroom. This total reliance emphasizes how important caregivers are to keeping patients comfortable, hygienic, and well-being.
- Unfortunately, late-stage Alzheimer’s patients are also more prone to infections, especially pneumonia. This results from compromised immune systems, difficulties keeping teeth clean, and limited movement, all of which raise the possibility of respiratory issues.
Even though a person with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease may face many difficulties, their dignity and comfort can be maintained throughout this trying time by giving them compassionate care, attending to their physical requirements, and establishing a secure and comforting atmosphere.
How to Take Care of People with Late-Stage Dementia
Here are some tips that you can incorporate into your regular care routine for a loved one in the last stages of dementia:
Communication
- Maintain interaction, even if responses are limited.
- Speak calmly and slowly, and use a gentle tone.
- Share familiar stories, make eye contact, and use touch.
- Play calming music or nature sounds.
Movement and Positioning
- If the person cannot move, seek professional help for safe movement and positioning to prevent complications.
- Use special mattresses and cushions to reduce pressure sores.
- Move the person regularly to prevent stiffness and discomfort.
- Use supportive seating and offer objects to hold during movement.
Eating
- Offer smaller, more frequent meals at consistent times.
- Create a calm eating environment and control between-meal snacks.
- Ensure proper fitting dentures and address swallowing difficulties with the doctor.
- Serve soft, easy-to-eat finger foods and high-calorie options if needed.
- Offer liquids in small sips and encourage self-feeding as much as possible.
Incontinence
- Be understanding and use incontinence supplies like adult diapers, bed protectors, and mattress covers.
- Consult the doctor for potential treatment of the underlying cause.
Dental, Skin, and Foot Care
- Brush their teeth twice daily with fluoride tooth-paste and floss regularly.
- Check for mouth sores, decay, and food pocketing.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and address any sensitivities beforehand.
- Move the person regularly to prevent pressure sores and use appropriate support surfaces.
- Check for skin redness and sores, and keep the affected area clean and dry.
- Soak and moisturize the feet, trim toenails, and consult a podiatrist if needed.
Body Jerking
- Consult the doctor immediately if the person experiences sudden jerking or twitching.
- Medication can be prescribed to control these symptoms.
Finding Help
- Understand your limitations and seek help from professionals or support groups.
- Explore options for in-home care or long-term care facilities if needed.
Conclusion
Providing holistic, patient-focused care for individuals experiencing late-stage dementia requires approaches that consider all aspects of the condition. By following evidence-based guidelines tailored to meet the diverse requirements of advanced dementia patients, healthcare providers can effectively manage symptoms, minimize risks, and optimize outcomes.
Moreover, fostering empathy, compassion, and sensitive care practices promotes improved relationships, enhanced quality of life, and greater peace of mind for patients and their families alike.
