Understanding the Later Stages of Dementia: Care & Support

Later stages of dementia usually bring about increasing frailness as the illness progresses. By this time, there is almost always a need for consistent care. If people know what to expect prior to reaching this point, this painful situation can be made easier.

Severe Memory Loss

• The later stages of dementia are characterized by severe memory loss. Most people will not even be able to recognize the people that are closest to them; they may not even recognize themselves.

Inability to Identify

• In late stage dementia, it is very likely that the person suffering will not even recognize their surroundings, or recall simple, everyday objects.

Loss of Time

• There is no concept of time in late stage dementia; the patient could talk about people from their past, but be unable to remember anyone from the present.

Loss of Mobility

• Late stage dementia usually causes the complete inability to perform even mundane tasks without help; sufferers are often unsteady on their feet, bumping into things and falling frequently.

Eating and Weight Loss

• There are often problems with chewing and swallowing with late stage dementia, leading to weight loss.

Incontinence

• Most people in late stage dementia may have problems controlling their bladder and bowels.