It is important to know how to act during the rapid decline in dementia to avoid the inconvenience.
Alzheimer’s disease and most other causes of dementia are gradually progressive conditions. Sudden or rapid changes in mood, behavior, confusion or ability to function almost always indicate that something else is going on.
Very often this is a medical concern.
Different Medical Conditions and Dementia Decline
Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common among older women. Men can also get them, especially in the presence of a catheter or prostate issue.
Some people take diuretic medication for fluid retention, swollen legs, blood pressure, heart conditions or other conditions.
Examples of diuretic medication include Lasix (furosemide), Demadex (torsemide), and Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide).
When people take diuretic medication they can easily become dehydrated, especially after a bout of diarrhea.
Dehydration leads to an electrolyte imbalance which can cause confusion, drowsiness, dry mouth, decreased urination and a rapid heart rate.
The doctor should be notified immediately for proper assessment and treatment.
Constipation
Older adults with dementia are often at high risk for constipation. Many seniors take a number of medications that can slow bowel function.
If they have difficulty moving around their risk for constipation is further increased as well.
Going a couple of days without moving one’s bowels can be very uncomfortable.
It can cause nausea, irritability and changes in appetite.
If the person with dementia has difficulty identifying the cause for his or her discomfort, he or she will usually communicate it behaviorally by getting cranky and irritable.
Going four or five days without a bowel movement is an urgent concern.
The stool grows harder and increasingly difficult to pass, and there exists a high risk for potentially life-threatening complications such as perforating the bowel.
Dementia itself neither causes nor dulls the pain.
One key difference though is that in many cases the person with dementia can no longer recognize or communicate pain as they once could.
Another change is that they are often no longer able to treat pain on their own before it worsens. It is generally recognized that it is more effective to prevent pain than it is to “chase” it, or treat it once it has escalated.
When a person can no longer take medication, apply heat, change their position, or do what may be needed to address the pain in its early stages managing it starts to become more challenging.
Many family members tend to be under the impression that their loved one “used to have” chronic pain but no longer do. Because they no longer mention it, families assume it no longer bothers them.
A sudden increase in pain may be the result of a bump, fall, ingrown toenail, rash or skin infection, spontaneous compression fracture, or shoes that need replacement.
Whatever the cause, hurting takes a lot of energy. Pain is exhausting on its own, and it can also interfere with sleep.
With dementia, everything including thinking and basic functioning requires a great deal of energy.
Everything becomes increasingly difficult, and it becomes impossible to function at one’s best.
Sleeplessness
It’s no secret that people don’t function well without proper sleep.
If a loved one with dementia is not sleeping well due to pain, illness, depression, nightmares or any other reason, they will not be able to function at their highest level.
When a brain can’t function well the result often includes changes in mood, emotional control, behavior, thinking, reasoning, or motor control.
The brain controls literally everything the person does, so everything is potentially affected.
Changes in medications
Medications tend to affect the elderly much more significantly than the general adult population.
They have different recommended dosing and there are many medications that are considered too dangerous to use in the elderly in most cases.
Furthermore, many elders take multiple medications, many of which affect each other. They may increase or decrease the potency of one another, or increase the risk of dangerous side effects.
To reduce the risk of medication interactions it is important to use only one doctor to the extent possible and to use only one pharmacy.
If a sudden change in behavior or condition occurs, consider whether there have been any recent changes in medication or dosages. Also, consider if the person may have accidentally taken too much or too little of what has been prescribed.
For example, might they have forgotten to take their medication, or might they have accidentally taken more than what was prescribed?
Other medical conditions
Most people with dementia are over 65 and many have additional medical conditions. These may be acting up or newly onset. Uncontrolled blood sugars caused by diabetes, heart conditions, thyroid conditions, other infections or any other underlying medical condition may be to blame.
So, what to do when a loved one with dementia experiences a rapid change or decline?
It is always important to consult with the loved one’s doctor when any sudden change is noted in someone with dementia.
It can be hard to anticipate what will be needed when a loved one is planning a move to a memory care facility. There is just so much stress, so much emotion, and so much unknown.
Smooth the Experience Where Possible
It’s hard enough to make a move to a facility under any circumstances, but if the home must be completely vacated it can be especially stressful.
Some of the pressure can be alleviated by renting a storage unit for a few months until the person is more settled.
It should be expected that things will not always go as planned, and that needs and preferences will continually change throughout the course of the illness.
It’s impossible to predict exactly what will change or go awry, so just be prepared to roll with the punches as they present themselves.
What to Bring to a Memory Care Facility
Read on for a few things to consider when preparing for a move to memory care.
Furniture
Check with facility management about which furniture, if any, will be provided and whether they have any suggestions regarding what to bring or leave behind.
The Bed
Some facilities will provide a bed and others won’t. If they do, find out what kind of bed and mattress to expect.
Connect with the staff to ensure everyone understands who will be providing and laundering bed linens.
Regardless of which bed is used, it is almost always advisable to bring a personal bedspread, quilt or blanket to use as a cover. This will increase familiarity in the room, so it usually should be an item the person already owns.
Be sure that the spread isn’t too big for the bed, which can create a tripping hazard. When downsizing beds, altering a favorite bedspread to fit the new bed safely can be a good option.
If the opportunity should come up it is worth considering a bed with adjustable head and foot position, even if it isn’t a current need.
As conditions change these features can really come in handy. Having them readily available may make a big difference down the road and may help to prevent a last-minute scramble to find one.
When deciding on which bed to bring to memory care consider the following points:
Does the person prefer a softer or firmer mattress?
Some mattresses are specially designed to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores. This may not be needed for everyone, but can make a big difference for some.
Thick or thin, firm or fluffy, most people sleep best with their own pillow – or at least their own favorite type of pillow.
It may be a good idea to bring one’s own bed when allowed if the specific bed is currently very important to the person. Usually, it’s not a big deal to people in the scope of everything, but to some, it matters tremendously. Be sure to verify that the bed fits in the room safely and can be transported through the doorway.
Armoire or Dresser
Many facilities have limited closet space, so an armoire or dresser can be a nice addition for some.
For many with dementia out of sight means out of mind. In some cases, it can be a good idea to keep certain items purposely out of sight.
In many cases, the person will be better able to maintain their independence if they can find items they need on their own.
For this reason, consider whether any of the following tips may be helpful:
Use a familiar dresser and keep the clothing arranged how they are accustomed to it.
Label each drawer with large print or simple pictures to identify what is inside.
Use furniture without a lot of separate compartments so that they can readily see their options.
There are furniture companies that make specialized furniture designed using these theories to help support people with dementia maintain their independence.
Don’t expect that the person’s closet or other belongings will be kept in order. Regardless of any effort to label or keep them organized, it just isn’t realistic to expect that they will stay that way.
It’s not useless; it still helps minimize disarray to do so, just don’t be disappointed when it’s not well kept up. There are just too many people, factors and variables involved.
Whether the person will rummage through their things on their own, or a confused neighbor will, or the well-meaning care staff will not share the same understanding of organizational principles, or they will encounter situations that are prioritized over putting away clothing neatly, or any number of other factors will prevent the organization from lasting more than a couple of days in a memory care closet.
It can help to pack up seasonal items and clothing and store them elsewhere to minimize clutter in the room. Ask the facility if they have any storage available for residents’ overflow or find an off-campus solution.
Other furniture
In addition to a bed and dresser, there may be enough room for an additional small or medium-sized piece of furniture. A favorite chair is often a good choice. Think about how and where the person currently spends their day.
The battered recliner may not look as attractive as another option, but if that is where they usually choose to sit it is likely to bring them the greatest comfort in their new home.
A desk, a computer, a sewing machine or similar items may be important to the person and so they could be good to bring along as space allows.
Often these items become more decorative than utilitarian but not only do they add familiarity to the room, they also reinforce the person’s sense of self. This is very valuable because the sense of self is constantly being eroded away by the disease.
Be sure to take any appropriate safety precautions.
Make sure to remove scissors, pins, needles, et cetera if needed.
Be sure that any sensitive financial information or access is removed from desks or computers.
Avoid rolling chairs, which can lead to falls.
Lamps
A floor or desk lamp can add a cozy glow and a comfortable homey feeling to a room. Be sure extra light bulbs are stored safely.
Decoration
Always keep in mind that anything brought into a memory care facility is at risk of becoming lost or damaged.
Don’t bring anything irreplaceable unless losing it is an acceptable outcome. Insure anything of value. Renter’s insurance is a good idea to maintain in memory care.
When selecting decor keep in mind that the main goals are:
Create and maintain a safe and homey environment
Maximize familiarity of the person’s new home
Reinforce the person’s sense of self
Facilitate connections between the person and others, namely staff or visitors
Safety
People with dementia typically experience an increase in confusion when they are in an unfamiliar environment. Until they acclimate to their new home they are at a heightened risk for falling.
This is especially concerning considering that many people with dementia are already at high risk for falls due to many factors including impulsivity, impaired safety awareness and altered spatial awareness.
Fall risk can be reduced by observing the following recommendations:
Avoid bringing too many items to memory care. Cluttered areas present a significant risk for tripping and falling.
Avoid area rugs, throw rugs and bath mats. These are huge tripping hazards and should generally be avoided at all costs.
Double check to ensure that electrical cords cannot accidentally end up anywhere they could cause somebody to stumble. Taping them into place may be advisable, and keep them well clear of walkways.
Many facilities have policies regarding extension cords and other potentially dangerous items. Be sure to check with facility management prior to bringing in items such as:
Extension cords or power strips
Electric heaters
Faux fireplaces
Electric blankets
Heating pads
Blades including pocket knifes, scissors, nail clippers, razors, et cetera
Other sharp objects such as letter openers, knitting needles, sewing needles
Familiarity
Being able to recognize familiar items or decor can ease the transition to the new environment.
People with dementia can function better and experience less disorientation and confusion in a familiar environment than an unfamiliar one.
Generally, it is advisable to create the most familiarity possible in the new environment. Use the same furniture, decor, and items and place them in similar arrangements to the extent possible and practical.
Do they have lots of family photos, artwork or plants? Which furniture do they use most frequently? Which daily morning, afternoon or evening routines are most important?
As they acclimate to the facility, and settle into this new chapter in their life, many of these things will change. Setting them up as similarly as possible to start can be helpful in the beginning.
Sense of Self
Decor is an excellent tool for reinforcing the sense of self. Consider which items evoke feelings of security, comfort, identity or pride in the individual.
For some, it may be a college degree or a special award. For others, it may be a photo of a workplace, home, or a particular accomplishment. Others may enjoy seeing a knitting basket full of yarn or quilts that they have created. Many find comfort in family photos.
Use caution with military memorabilia. For some, it may evoke positive feelings, but for others, it may have the opposite effect.
Opportunities for Connection
Decor is one of the best and quickest ways to introduce one’s self to staff and visitors without ever having to say a word. It gives people a way to instantly connect.
Use labels with basic details so that it doesn’t fall on the person to always remember and verbalize the information.
An example might be a world map marked with the places the person had visited or captioned photographs.
Photographs
Family photos are usually a safe bet and a frequent favorite.
Bear in mind that people with dementia sometimes regress in their orientation, and may believe at times that they are still a young adult or even a child.
They may believe that their children are still babies, not grown adults, and that their spouse, if they are married at all, is a young adult, not an elder.
In these cases, it is generally most effective and therapeutic to meet them where they are in the moment rather than try to continually reorient them.
If in their mind they are back in their childhood, pictures of their parents are often the most recognizable and comforting. Pictures of siblings, pets or the family home can also be welcome.
For some, it is helpful to bring a frame that shows labeled pictures of their children both as youngsters and as grown adults.
Other items
Clothing
How much to bring?
Bring at least enough clothing, pajamas, socks and underclothing for 7-10 days, more if incontinence is an issue.
Be mindful not to bring so much clothing that the closets or drawers are stuffed, and avoid bringing items that the person won’t need regularly.
Be sure to bring a couple of pairs of shoes, ensuring they are comfortable and slip-resistant.
Safe footwear
Slippers and other shoes should cover the heel so they aren’t easy to step out of accidentally. Slipper socks with non-slip rubber on the soles are often a good addition to the wardrobe.
They can help prevent falls if the person gets up from bed and forgets to put on shoes or slippers.
Adapting the wardrobe
At some point, it may be helpful or necessary to adapt the wardrobe to enhance independence or to change with evolving needs or preferences.
Examples of common adaptations include:
Eliminating buttons, or choosing clothing with large buttons only
Avoid tops that pull over the head, opting instead for a button down or cardigan style
Eliminating pants with zippers and buttons in favor of elastic waistbands
Replacing shoes with shoelaces with velcro or slip on styles
Clothing should feel comfortable, familiar and help the person feel they look good
Don’t go out and buy a whole new wardrobe unless these adaptations are necessary. Clothing should feel comfortable, familiar and reinforce the person’s sense of self and self-esteem.
Looking good helps people feel better, so the person should feel good about what they are wearing.
Laundry
Clothing should be machine washable to the extent possible. Caregivers mean well but they come from a variety of backgrounds – and laundry skills.
Expect that there will be a number of people caring for each resident, and their clothing, throughout the course of the week.
Check with management regarding laundry practices. Who will be doing the laundry, and how often. What will they do if the person has no clean clothes available?
Keep a realistic understanding
Understand that what is brought may well end up in the washer, on a neighbor or in their closet, or who knows where else.
Be prepared to adapt to what may come up as the person’s needs and preferences change with the course of the disease.
Jewelry
Costume jewelry is a wonderful thing to bring to memory care, provided it’s understood that it may become lost. Many people feel better wearing it, and many love to spend time sorting through it.
Wedding rings, or other valuable or irreplaceable jewelry that the person insists on wearing, can be tricky.
As people age they can lose weight, making it easier for rings to fall off. They often hide items like jewelry to “keep it safe”, never to be found again.
Often people wrap small items in tissues and then inadvertently throw them away. One possible solution is to take the ring to be cleaned.
Have the jeweler make a duplicate so that the original can be stored safely and the person can enjoy the feeling of wearing their precious jewelry.
Toiletries
Personal and paper supplies
Typically the resident is responsible for bringing items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrushes, incontinence supplies and the like. Some facilities will provide these items at an additional cost.
Check with the facility to find out whether toilet paper, tissues, gloves, shampoo or soap or other supplies are provided by the facility and if so, at what cost.
Washcloths and towels
Be sure to confirm with the facility whether they provide bed linens, washcloths or towels.
Over the counter medications and creams
Be sure to connect with staff regarding any over the counter medications, supplements, eye drops, medicated creams or ointments, or other such items that the person may use.
For safety reasons, these types of items are often not allowed to be kept unsecured in the resident rooms.
Telephones
Telephones can be tricky in certain cases. Some people have a tendency to call others without realizing the time or to make inappropriate 911 calls.
Most facilities have telephones available for residents to use. In cases like these, it may make the most sense to skip any in-room phone.
Staff should be able to help dial phone numbers and/or redirect away from the phone as needed.
For some people, telephones represent a great deal of security.
It may be helpful to have a phone with preset numbers if they are used to using one. It should be the actual phone they are used to using if possible.
Most people have difficulty navigating voicemail by this point so it usually should be disabled.
Check with the facility to find out if there is a phone number that family and friends can call to reach staff if they are having difficulty reaching the person directly.
Generally speaking, the person should be allowed to have a personal phone if they want one, so long as there aren’t any current problems.
Should challenges arise later the plan can evolve.
Reading material
Books, newspapers and magazines can be great to bring to memory care. The person may still gain enjoyment from reading them, but even if not they can all be used to reinforce the sense of self.
For certain people seeing a small bookcase with familiar titles or seeing the newspaper that has been part of the breakfast routine for fifty years can be extremely meaningful, and can give others ways to easily connect with the person.
Large picture books on topics of interest can also be a valuable addition.
Keep in mind that there is nothing at all wrong with reading a book and forgetting or reading the same passage over and over, so long as it doesn’t bother the person.
Many people with dementia enjoy the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books. This series is full of inspiring and heartwarming short stories that are easier to follow than longer books.
Spiritual books can be a source of comfort during this extraordinarily difficult period in their life.
Photo albums
Photo albums with labeled pictures are a must. As described above, bear in mind what types of photos will be most personally meaningful to the individual at their current stage of dementia when selecting photo content.
Make copies of photos so the irreplaceable originals aren’t lost or damaged.
Activity Box
A small box or basket full of little things that the person enjoys doing, looking through, or talking about can be a great addition to the person’s collection.
This enables staff and visitors to easily engage them in personally meaningful activity.
Examples of possible items to place in an activity box could include:
Cards with meaningful spiritual passages
Baseball cards
Playing cards
Scented lotions
Manicure supplies
Costume jewelry, scarves
Fabric notions
Yarn
Trivia or joke books
Pictures of family, animals or favorite places
The options are limitless and items in the box can be added or updated as needed.
Music
A simple CD or MP3 player with a collection of favorite music is a must for most memory care residents.
Studies have shown that music stimulates brain function. The brain is able to better function and communicate during, and for a short period after, listening to one’s favorite music.
The music enjoyed in the person’s teens and twenties is typically most effective.
This is true even when people don’t especially consider themselves to be music lovers.
Exceptions
In many cases, the thought of moving can be overwhelming to someone with dementia. In some cases it can be so stressful it is in fact beyond a person’s ability to process.
Often this coincides with cases in which the person doesn’t understand that they need help.
In cases like these, it can sometimes reduce distress and lead to a smoother transition present the move as a temporary situation.
Perhaps it’s a trial or it’s just until some goal is met. The goal would have to make sense to the person, for example:
Just until physical therapy is complete
Until the doctor has adjusted some medication
Until some necessary repair work is completed in the current home
Presenting it this way may help the person be more accepting of the idea of going – although they will not likely like it.
Once he or she has settled into the new place, gets to know the staff, the environment and the routines, the prospect of a permanent stay is much less overwhelming.
If this is the case it may make sense to minimize what items are initially brought. The environment should support the person’s understanding of the situation.
It wouldn’t make sense to bring a bunch of furniture and artwork to a rehab facility. In a case like this, it may be advisable to bring clothing, toiletries, a framed picture for the bedside, a blanket for the bed, et cetera.
Bring a couple more items with each visit, or every couple of days, without making a big deal of it. Soon the person has their familiar items and familiar space.
Be sure to coordinate with facility staff regarding anything that is told to the resident so he or she can hear consistent information from all sources.
The staff may have good ideas and insight on how to alleviate stress from the move and achieve the smoothest possible results as well.
As dementia progresses, it can affect a person’s language skills to the extent that they are not able to express when they are in pain.
Some affected persons may not even remember how they hurt themselves or the source of their pain which adds to the challenges of trying to communicate about their pain.
Caregivers should, therefore, know how to detect when a person is suffering from dementia and pain so that it can be treated as soon as possible.
Because persons with dementia will experience pain differently, at times it may be possible to ask directly whether a person is in pain.
This is where you shoot direct questions like “does it hurt”, “are you in pain? “ “Is it sore?” and they will give you an answer.
However, when a person is not able to communicate how they are feeling, perhaps because they have advanced dementia, their behaviors might give you a clue when they are experiencing pain.
Some of the behaviors include social withdrawal or becoming increasingly agitated. Other non-verbal cues that a person may use to communicate that they are in pain or distress include:
Facial Expressions
Some signs on a person’s face that may be an indication they are in pain include clenching teeth, distorted expressions, wrinkled forehead, rapid blinking, tightened or closed eyes, grimacing, frightened or sad face.
This may tell you that a person may be suffering from a combination of dementia and pain.
Body Movements
Some changes in body movement might also be a way of communicating that an individual is in pain.
This is where a person might start fidgeting, pacing, guarding a certain part of the body, rigid, have a tense body posture, or experience restricted movement as well as mobility or gait changes.
Changes in Emotions or Thinking
When a person with dementia is crying, highly irritable, confused, become combative, aggressive, resists care, or have decreased social interactions, it may mean that they are feeling pain.
Physical Changes
At times, a person with increased sweating, blood pressure, and heart rate may be experiencing pain.
The same person might also be reluctant to move or experience slow movement or a limited range of motion.
Vocalizations
Although a person may not clearly say they are in pain, there are some verbalizations they can use to express how they are feeling.
This can include being verbally abusive, cursing, asking for assistance, grunting, calling out, chanting, noisy breathing, groaning, moaning, or sighing.
Tips for Avoiding Common Causes of Pain for Persons with Dementia
Because pain is easier to prevent than relieve, there are some tips that you can work with to help avoid some common pain causes like:
Ensuring clothes fit right
Checking to see if dentures fit well as well as practicing good oral and dental hygiene
Making certain that the ill person has appropriate and comfortable footwear
Regularly checking assistive devices like eyewear and hearing aids to ensure that they are properly working and fit well
Encouraging gentle movement of all limbs by stretching and bending frequently
Visiting the doctor if there is a slight change in behavior so that whatever is disturbing a person may be caught early
Managing Pain for Individuals with Dementia
When you suspect that a person is going through dementia and pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Doctors have special tools that they can use to detect pain in seniors who have dementia.
The health care workers are also in the best position to prescribe appropriate pain medication depending on the cause of pain.
Some of the drugs that doctors may prescribe include opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, laxatives, and analgesics.
There are also non-drug therapies that can help with dementia and pain.
Depending on doctor’s instructions they can be implemented alone or in combination with pain alleviating drugs.
If a person needs to be on long-term pain management, you can always consult different professionals like tissue viability nurses, a general practitioner, physiotherapist, or a pain specialist team in your locality to get expert advice on effective pain management strategies.
Consequences of Not Treating Pain for Persons with Dementia
When a person develops dementia and pain, some consequences that may arise when the pain goes undetected and untreated.
The most obvious is that the affected person will end up suffering unnecessarily.
The individuals may also receive inappropriate treatment in a bid to curb some of the behavioral changes they may adapt. For instance, a person may be put on antidepressants when chronic pain results in depression.
A person going through persistent pain may also experience decreased mobility which may affect the quality of life in the long-run.
Experts also agree that pain can affect thinking and other functions of the brain which can lead to worsening of dementia symptoms.
This is why it is crucial to recognize and treat any form of pain that a person with dementia may have before it results in poor medical outcomes and other proud negative implications in their lives.
Because dementia is an incurable disease, there is one pertinent question that many ask and that is how do dementia patients die?
Before answering this question it is important to note that in many countries Alzheimer’s disease and other kinds of dementia have been documented as the leading cause of death in the country, especially for the older generation.
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, deaths due to dementia doubled from 40,253 in 2007 to 87, 199 in 2017 and the trend does not appear to change anytime soon.
In America, dementia is the 6th leading cause of death and currently, millions of people are living with the disease.
World Health Organization estimates that the number of dementia deaths across the globe will increase by more than 40% from 2015 to 2030.
How Does Dementia Lead to Death?
Before a person dies from dementia, there are a couple of warning signs they may showcase as discussed below.
Terminal restlessness or agitation because a person becomes extremely disoriented and confused
Difficulties in breathing
Legs, arms, feet, and hands become cold to touch
To get back to answering the query do dementia patients die, many experts agree that the actual death of an individual who has dementia may be due to another medical condition.
During the later stages of dementia, the affected person is likely to be in a trailer.
This implies that their immunity is compromised, hence they cannot effectively cope with physical problems or infections.
Several factors can lead to the death of a person who has dementia such as
Lack of Proper Nutrition
Food acts as fuel for the human body. When the body is not getting proper nutrition, there is a likelihood that an array of problems will start developing.
This is what happens during the later dementia stages.
Many may not be in a position to prepare or eat food without assistance. This may cause them to go off food which can make them dangerously lose weight.
Some individuals will also lose muscle control towards the end of the disease where they cannot chew properly or even swallow food.
When the individual is not getting adequate nourishment, they become weaker and are more susceptible to the risk of infections, fractures, and falls which may lead to their demise.
There are also chances that a person with dementia may end up inhaling fluids or foods. It mostly happens because they lose the skill to coordinate breathing and swallowing because of the damage that happens in the brain which controls these activities.
When this happens, it can lead to life-threatening chest infections and choking.
Existing Diseases
When you ask how do dementia patients die, the answer might be because of other co-existing diseases.
A huge percentage of people with dementia also suffer from other chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, chronic respiratory disease, and hypertension amongst others.
It can become challenging to try and manage dementia with other illnesses so it becomes easy for a person to experience the complications associated with these conditions which can lead them to their last breath.
Several studies reveal that people within the last stage of dementia become vulnerable to all sorts of medical conditions.
Autopsies often reveal that the main cause of death for persons with dementia are pneumonia, dehydration, cardiovascular diseases, cachexia, and pulmonary embolism.
Other facts that may contribute to dementia deaths include increased falls, advanced age, and delirium.
Closing Thoughts
Sadly dementia does not only make a person forgetful and weak. It is a serious progressive condition that is terminal.
Reading the text above will reveal answers to the question on how do dementia patients die.
For years, experts have been trying to figure out the link between vitamin B12 and dementia.
Several studies report that the elderly who have low vitamin B12 levels are at high risk of dementia.
One of the studies with 121 participants uncovered the fact that those with lower vitamin B12 levels had smaller brain volumes according to MRI’s and they also performed poorly on cognitive tests.
Can Vitamin B12 Supplementation Help with Dementia?
A clinical nutritionist, Christine Tangney, at Rush University, concluded that low brain volume co-relates to low Vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 is naturally present in a majority of foods that come from animals, including poultry, meat, and fish.
Manufacturers also fortify many breakfast bowls of cereal with vitamin B12.
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Importance of Vitamin B12
Before getting deeper into the connection between vitamin B12 and dementia, it is prudent to learn the importance of the vitamin in the human body.
In the brain, vitamin B12 enables a process known as memory formation where brain cells make new connections.
The vitamin is also an essential part of myelin, a coating that protects a majority of the brain cells. Other important roles that the vitamin plays in the body include:
Formation of red blood cells
DNA synthesis
Production of energy
The normal function of the nervous system and the brain (promotes nerve tissue health)
Learning these roles of the vitamin explains why a deficiency can lead to memory loss or dementia.
With this in mind, check out some of the reasons why low vitamin B12 mostly affects older persons.
As people grow older, their guts’ ability to absorb vitamin B12 changes.
For a majority, this happens because their bodies can no longer produce adequate amounts of stomach acid.
The acid is an essential component for breaking down proteins and vitamin B.
This implies that seniors require more vitamin B12 as they grow older, but their bodies do not keep up.
Diet
Vitamin B12 mostly comes from animal sources; this means that seniors who are on a vegetarian diet may not get adequate vitamins.
We cover the best foods for the dementia diet in this article.
Medications and surgeries
Some medicines like metformin interfere with the absorption of the vitamin.
Surgeries that remove parts or all of the small intestines or stomach can also lead to vitamin deficiency.
Alcoholism
Needless to say, alcohol may irritate the stomach and this is most of the time linked to poor diet.
Can Vitamin B12 Improve Memory?
While discussing B12 and dementia, it is important to answer the question of whether the vitamin can help improve memory in persons who have dementia.
While vitamin B12 supplements help to treat the deficiency of the vitamin, there is still no clear evidence on whether it helps to enhance memory in individuals with neurological disease.
Contrary to this statement, The Daily Telegraph reported that vitamin B tablets could halt or slow down dementia.
According to the published article, large vitamin B doses can half brain shrinkage rate, a process that precedes dementia.
The article was based on a study that happened over two years, where vitamin B pills were compared to inactive placebo pills in 271 seniors with mild memory issues.
Participants in the study were persons who were 70 years and over and experience various memory issues. They received high-dose vitamin B tablets or placebo pills.
Vitamin B treatment has effects on the levels of tHcy in an individual’s blood, reducing this by 22.5%.
With the placebo group, there was a 7.7% increase in tHcy levels.
Overall, the study uncovered the fact that those who were on vitamin B experienced atrophy (brain shrinkage) 30% lower than those elderly persons who were not given the inactive tablets.
Based on the age of the persons in the study, the shrinkage rate in persons who were on the vitamins was 30% less than the ones in the placebo.
The effect was generally higher in the participants who were more compliant when taking the medication as well as those who had high levels of tHCy when they started the study.
However, worth noting is that slower brain shrinkage may not result in improving the symptoms.
The research did not indicate the fact that vitamin B can prevent dementia.
This is because there is no evidence that when the brain shrinks at a slower rate, it will benefit persons who have early symptoms of dementia.
This said, it is evident that the results are quite promising and this demands more in-depth research about B12 and dementia.
The researchers also mentioned that vitamin B is safe for consumption with no adverse effects on the people consuming it.
This leads to the conclusion that vitamin B is a safe and simple treatment that can slow down the quick rate of brain atrophy in individuals who have mild cognitive impairment.
Final Thoughts – Vitamin B12 and Dementia
There is still a long way to go regarding vitamin B12 and dementia.
There is still no proof that vitamin B12 deficiency causes dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Studies, however, suggest that increasing the intake of the vitamin can help to slow cognitive decline.
Professionals need to conduct more research, studies, and clinical trials to ascertain whether vitamin B12 supplements can prevent, slow progression, or even treat some dementia types.
A statistic from the CDC indicates the condition of dementia affects as much as 5.8 million Americans.
Dementia is caused by the degeneration of the cerebral cortex region of the brain. This occurs by head injury, stroke, brain tumors, and other factors not yet fully understood.
Is it Common for Patients to Experience Incontinence?
Yes. Patients with dementia will typically have more issues with incontinence compared with someone of the same age.
The main reason is that they tend to have trouble connecting with the impulses to go to the bathroom.
There are many unknowns about the exact scientific relationship between dementia and incontinence.
Is There a Cure for Dementia?
Researchers are searching for answers for cures, new treatment options, and more advanced knowledge of these conditions and more.
To date, there are many clinical trials underway and progress is being made. We have seen many advancements in the way of diagnostic and imaging technology in addition to identifying important biomarkers.
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Why Are Dementia and Incontinence Related?
As a standalone issue, incontinence is a difficult condition. Incontinence is classically defined as the inability to control one’s urination or bowel movements.
The severity of causes of incontinence vary from person to person and there could be more than one contributing factor or causes.
Some of the more common reasons for incontinence stem directly from one or more medical conditions such as age-related stress incontinence paired with limited mobility.
Dementia tends to complicate incontinence factors in a myriad of ways:
It becomes difficult to identify the urges to go to the bathroom.
Sometimes there may be issues remembering the location of a bathroom.
They may be physically unable to reach the restroom in time.
There may be the inability to control the muscular control needed for voluntary bowel movements and urination.
Are There Any Treatment Options for Dementia Patients Suffering from Incontinence?
The first thing to do would be to determine as best you can the type of incontinence that is being experienced.
Your doctor should be able to help assist with any underlying medical issues that might be a factor.
This could translate to a change in medications or even addressing a possible urinary tract infection.
An example of possible medical interventions could be as simple as recommending pelvic floor exercises to undergo corrective surgery.
You may also find that you or your loved one qualifies for use of a medical device or procedure designed to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and to retrain the bladder.
These represent some of the more modern methods of managing bladder control. These and other treatment options are best explored with the help of your personal physician.
How Do You Manage Incontinence in Dementia Patients?
Managing incontinence is best achieved with a plan and a simple level of preparedness.
Making sure the caregiver is paired with adequate resources, preferences, and supplies can help shape the experience in a new light.
The key to effectively managing incontinence lies in maintaining one’s dignity and health intact in every possible way.
Daily Care
There are many things you can do to help offset the helplessness that accompanies incontinence.
Keep a clear course or route to the bathroom. Make it as easy as possible.
Eliminate bladder aggravating foods and drinks such as coffee, alcohol, soda, or teas.
Choose clothing that makes getting the bathroom easier and is easily removed or changed.
Create a routine for taking medications and eating to help facilitate predictable bowel patterns.
Create a plan for keeping clean. Think out of the box and consider the installation of shower tools, benches, or other modifications if you are in a caregiver role.
Get creative. An example might be to set timers to help remind patients to use the bathroom.
Don’t’ forget about privacy – Help your loved one keep his or her dignity.
Planning for Trips
Plan accordingly for trips away from the comfort of one’s home.
Good practices might be assessing the need for extra stops along the way, or simply knowing the layout of a place ahead of time for an easy bathroom location.
These simple ideas may prevent an accident and help simplify visits to the doctor or even marketplaces.
Tip: Understand ahead of time what restroom facilities are available to you – especially in the cases of staying in a hotel or event location.
Don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask for any modifications that may make your stay easier.
Services and Resources
Finding support for yourself if you are a caregiver and your loved one should be a priority.
Many aren’t designed to navigate these waters alone. The CDC estimates that there are 25% of adults in the U.S. that are providing care to a loved one.
There are specialty organizations and hospital affiliates designed to assist with affordable incontinence supplies, counseling, and in some cases in-home care visits.
To learn more about the resources available to you, contact your care provider or visit informative websites like this one.
How Do You Overcome the Emotional Obstacles Associated with Incontinence and Dementia?
It goes without saying, the level of embarrassment felt by someone with incontinence is debilitating. Left unchecked, these emotions can quickly escalate to severe depression.
Encourage dialogue and healthy emotional outlets – a little compassion can go a long way.
Consider finding avenues to maintain discreet cleaning, and personalizing care options.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the fit of personal care products.
Do your best to honor personal preferences regarding incontinent product choices.
Never underestimate the humanity and value of being comfortable and feeling your best in the face of unpleasant circumstances.
It could be the one thing that makes the experience of embarrassing incontinent situations bearable.
Conclusion
Living with incontinent associated dementia isn’t easy.
However, it can be managed effectively with knowledge and a little understanding.
Make your physician your partner in creating a personalized healthcare strategy. It might be one of the best things you can do aside from staying positive.
Most importantly, stay connected with what is trending for available treatment options.
Remember communication, patience, and quality care are the hallmark vehicles to effectively managing complications of incontinence due to dementia.
Vascular dementia is one of the most common types of dementia, and people who have this illness often have to go through several vascular dementia stages.
It can happen when there are impaired tiny blood vessels in the brain or after a person has gone through a major stroke or even a series of smaller strokes.
Because the condition does not have a cure yet, it progresses from a mild case to a severe one. Note that these stages will differ from one person to the next.
This is simply because this type of dementia is typically brought about by different conditions.
However, another may get it after the inner parts of the brain get damaged for one reason or another. Just like other forms of dementia, vascular dementia also tends to progress in gradual stages. This, however, happens in a more step-like manner.
Check out how the illness may affect an individual over time describing what happens during the three major vascular dementia stages below.
Vascular Dementia Stages
1st Stage
At the onset of vascular dementia, things are usually not too serious. Many individuals during this first stage can go about their daily lives without any interference.
This is because the symptoms are still somewhat stable; thus, manageable.
Some people may experience things like impaired memory (general forgetfulness), challenges finding the right words, and difficulty with planning, organizing, and carrying out several tasks in an efficient manner during the first stages of this illness.
A small percentage of individuals with vascular dementia will also go through a slight decline in walking and balance. The condition at this point may also affect thinking and decision making.
At this stage, a majority of people can live alone, but it is recommended that their loved ones always check on them often.
This helps to make sure that everything is in place and that the individuals are not a danger to themselves or any other people around them.
At times, small home modifications may also come in handy to create a more supportive and comfortable environment for individuals with vascular dementia.
2nd Stage
After a person has gone through the initial vascular dementia stages, it may reach a point where the symptoms are no longer stable.
Things become worse where you might find that the affected person now has a different personality.
Depending on the cause of this dementia, many people will start going through anxiety, depression and have mood swings.
This usually occurs because a person is more aware of the changes that are happening to their bodies. Some people will become overly emotional and a majority are prone to apathy.
Other behavioral changes may include increased agitation and irritability.
Increased agitation and irritability
There may also be sessions where they are certain outbursts where a person can either cry or laugh inappropriately.
In severe cases, a percentage of individuals who have vascular dementia will also experience epilepsy episodes. Loss of social skills is also common at this stage.
You may find that a person who has the disease no longer wants to be a part of the social circles they were in before. They may not want to talk to the people they love.
You may notice that they want to spend more time indoors as a means of shutting out the world.
Most of the time, this usually comes about because a person is embarrassed about what they are going through seeing that they are no longer in complete control of their lives.
Several physical signs may also be prevalent during the middle stages of vascular dementia.
This is where a person may experience loss of bowel or bladder control. Some may also experience dizziness and tremors often.
Caregivers may also notice that the persons under their care are experiencing arm and leg weakness and maybe moving around with shuffling rapid steps.
Language and speech problems
If a person was speaking well in the past, slurred speech and other language problems might also start to show up.
Individuals with this illness should also get close monitoring when they are on the move. That’s because they tend to get lost even when they are in familiar surroundings.
Doing things like paying bills handling money or engaging in their favorite hobby becomes challenging, which can prove to be quite frustrating to the ill individual.
It’s not uncommon for a person with the illness to have difficulties sleeping during this phase.
Some individuals also display repetitive, obsessive or even impulsive behavior.
If a person is staying alone at this point, it would be best to make different housing arrangements.
They can move in with relatives who will act as caregivers and also keep an eye on the persons with the illness to prevent avoidable accidents.
If this is not possible, the family might have to look into senior care facilities where persons with vascular dementia will get professional care.
This is simply because a person at this point may need support with multiple day-to-day activities.
These may include showering, walking, dressing, eating, cooking, and using the restroom, among others.
3rd Stage
You can consider this one of the final vascular dementia stages. The symptoms that persons experience at this stage are normally severe.
These can be distressing to the weak person.
If one gets vascular dementia after suffering a stroke, the aftermath can bring out physical symptoms.
They can experience problems with speech, vision, and weakness of the limbs. These symptoms will surface if the stroke caused damage to certain parts of the brain.
Individuals who have vascular dementia may also experience similar symptoms to the people who are in their last stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
It is where issues with communication, reasoning, confusion, memory loss, and disorientation become worse.
Motor challenges
A majority of people with vascular dementia also experience motor symptoms that may include unsteady or slow gait disturbance and clumsiness.
Delusions or hallucinations that would come and go during the previous stage worsen.
At times, persons with vascular dementia may also become violent, suspicious, and demanding of people who are around them.
Many persons have a difficult time eating and swallowing. This often leads to rapid unhealthy weight loss. Some may even experience loss of speech.
Almost everyone at this point will have significant problems with both long-term and short-term memory.
As the condition becomes worse, it may affect/damage all the functions of the brain. This is also the stage where the illness deteriorates and can end up being fatal.
Some people at this stage can also go through heart attacks or a major stroke that can end their lives.
During this stage, it might be difficult for the family to render the appropriate care. Especially if they are not around their loved ones 24/7.
This calls for other measures such as hiring a professional who will move in to look after the person who has vascular dementia.
Alternatively, the individual might have to move into a senior care community.
A place that looks after people with dementia to get the kind of assistance and care they need without compromising their health.
Closing Remarks
Anyone who has vascular dementia should not think of it as a death sentence. It is still possible to live a full life even when going through the various vascular dementia stages.
Always remember that different people will experience vascular dementia differently.
While some may go through gradual changes, others will experience a decline in cognitive abilities, which is followed closely by stability periods.
This does not last because there are other step downs in abilities and then stability for a while, and so forth. This is what is called “stepwise” or “step-like progression.”
When your grandparent manages to catch vascular dementia in its early stage, he or she can come up with an effective treatment plan.
This will slow down the illness, preventing it from becoming worse at a fast rate.
Professional doctors have the know-how to identify the underlying cause of the illness.
The expert will come up with a healthy program you can use to reduce the risk of complications that may crop up in the future.
Most professionals will recommend that you get moving to increase your physical fitness and blood flow. Additionally, eat a balanced diet, get on a routine, and quit smoking and drinking alcohol.
On average, reports indicate that persons with vascular dementia will live for about five years after they detect the symptoms.
There are, however, many people who have lived for more than five years.
For a person with dementia, the topic of dementia and eating is important to discuss.
This is because individuals with dementia usually go through several changes; one of them being how they eat.
Below you will explore some of the common eating challenges persons with dementia face.
It is important to understand each to act accordingly.
Common Eating Challenges for Persons with Dementia
Poor Appetite
A high percentage of individuals who have dementia experience lack of appetite at some point.
There are several explanations of why individuals can lose their appetite, including:
1. Depression
It is common for people with dementia to go through depression, which can be the cause of loss of appetite.
If you notice that a loved one or person under your care has depression, talk to your doctor right away.
He or she will prescribe the ideal medication or other therapies to help treat depression.
2. Constipation
This is another problem that can make one feel nauseous and bloated; thus, feel less likely to eat.
Try and avoid constipation by making sure the person with dementia takes lots of fluid and foods that are rich in fiber. If this condition becomes worse, consult your GP.
3. Communication
An individual who has the illness may have a tough time communicating well that they are hungry or do not like the food in front of them.
Take cue of how such people try and pass the message. For instance, closing the mouth for refusing to swallow can be an indication that they do not like the food that is on the table.
You can offer food choices using pictures and prompts so that a person can enjoy what they are eating.
Other factors that can trigger loss of appetite include when a person is experiencing pain, tiredness, changes in medication, or lack of physical exercises that make one not feel hungry.
Mouth Infections
There are times when dementia and eating issues come about because a person simply cannot eat the food even when they want to.
They can have bad teeth, redness, or sores in the mouth. If this is the case, visit a dentist to get a practical solution.
Caregivers can also help by taking care of their loved ones’ dental hygiene. This includes ensuring that they brush and floss their teeth at least two times a day.
It is also advisable to serve foods that are easy to chew. Solid foods can be cut into small pieces to make them more manageable.
You may also have to seek the services of an occupational therapist if a person is having challenges moving their muscles to open the mouth.
The professionals will come up with ways to help them eat.
Insatiable Appetite
While some people with dementia will experience loss of appetite, others will want to eat non-stop.
It may be possible that they may have forgotten when they had the last meal or be afraid of where the next one will come from.
Naturally, this is not healthy as overeating also comes with its fair share of negative health issues.
To try and tackle such a situation, you can serve five-to-six small meals throughout the day.
You can also avail of low-calorie snacks like carrots and apples that the person will munch on when they feel hungry.
Remember to cut down on processed foods, refined sugars, and foods with high sodium levels.
Some individuals with dementia will all over sudden develop a sweet tooth where they are always craving something sweet to eat.
Although you can give in to their demands a couple of times, it is not right to always give them sweet foods that are not good for their health.
To manage the cravings, you can opt to try food items like egg nogs, milkshakes and low-calorie ice cream that can help satisfy the cravings without causing too much damage.
Fruit can come in handy during such times. You should also check some of the side effects that the medicine the person with dementia is on.
Some antidepressant medications can make someone crave sweets. It is also advisable to share meals with your loved ones as this might increase their chances of eating the healthy meal you provide.
Decreased Judgment
Another factor that may contribute to dementia and eating problems in an individual is decreased judgment.
This is where a person with dementia may not be able to know what food items are on their plate or what to do with the cutlery before them.
You may notice that a person tries to eat from a cup rather than a plate.
Some may even use knives to try and pick up food instead of a spoon or fork.
To help with such, you can cue the person with actions or words so that they can mimic the effects of eating like putting food on a spoon and taking it to the mouth.
If the person is still struggling, be respectful and ask if they need assistance and go-ahead to offer a hand in a way that does not make them feel less of a person.
You can also serve finger foods that do not require utensils to consume like sandwiches and miniature quiches.
This can come about as a result of the changes that occur in the brain.
Environmental changes like noisy dining rooms can also make one experience difficulties while swallowing.
You must be very careful with this because it can cause further problems like choking, poor nutrition, aspiration where food goes down the wrong way in the lungs, and reduced life quality.
To give assistance, it is vital to create a comfortable and relaxed eating environment where a person will be at ease.
You can also use contrasting colored cutlery and plates so that the individual can easily see the food.
It may also help to offer small food amounts so that they can swallow without too much difficulty.
Softer textured food might also be an option as it is easy to chew and swallow.
A speech and language therapist can help when you feel like the swallowing issue is getting out of hand.
These can manifest in different ways like spitting out food, throwing away the food, or simply refusing to eat.
Before you dismiss the individual, try and find out why they are acting this way.
Some possible reasons for this behavior changes may include:
The food is too hot
A person does not like what is on the table
They are frustrated by the eating difficulties they are facing
Rushed eating
They do not like the eating area or the people around
They want assistance eating, etc.
When faced with such a scenario, remember to be as calm as possible so that it does not escalate and become worse. Never put pressure or rush a person as they eat.
You can also take the food away and wait for them to cool down before offering something to eat or drink.
It is also important to try and read body language to pick up clues on what the person wants.
You should also note that this is not the time for criticism and nagging. Offer plenty of support keeping in mind that the individual may not be in control of how they react.
They act the way they do because of the changes that happen in their brain because of the memory-loss disease.
Declining Motor and Visual Abilities
In regards to dementia and eating problems, the individual with the illness may experience a decline in motor and visual abilities as the disease progresses.
He or she may have a difficult time trying to comprehend where some objects concerning each other.
This often affects co-ordination and movement, which can cause problems when a person is eating.
Some helpful tips that can make things a lot easier for the person with dementia include offering colorful foods that are easily distinguishable.
You may also want to avoid the use of paper napkins or Styrofoam cups that a person might eat by mistake.
Store away the fragile China porcelain and do not place sharp knives on the table. It is also recommended to offer one food at a time to avoid overwhelming the person with dementia.
Closing Thought
Eating well is essential for anyone who has dementia if they want to stay healthy. A balanced diet is key to enhancing the quality of life. Not eating enough makes you prone to unhealthy weight loss, lower muscle strength, higher risk of infection, and a myriad of other health problems.
For people with dementia, it is vital to work closely with a dietician who will advise on the best foods to consume at every stage of the illness.
You should also note that each person’s dementia and eating journey is unique. For this reason, it also helps to take into account an individual’s culture, history, beliefs, and preference when coming up with diet plans.
This will help you to tailor appropriate eating solutions that will meet their preferences and nutritional needs.
There are multiple reasons why do dementia patients stop eating and it is important to understand why they may start to avoid food.
Dementia patients might refuse to eat if they either dislike the food or are trying to tell you their meal is too hot or too cold.
They may not even know that they should chew and swallow it.
Patients diagnosed with dementia will experience a decline in their memory as well as problem-solving and other thinking-related skills.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia and as many as 50 percent of these individuals find it difficult to eat at some point during their disease (1).
It becomes increasingly difficult for affected patients to perform normal daily activities. For this and other reasons, patients with dementia will spit out their food or stop eating entirely.
What Causes A Dementia Patient To Stop Eating? – 4 Factors to Consider
The global statistics for dementia are mind-boggling. As of 2017, the total number of people with dementia was estimated to be 50 million.
This number is expected to rise to 75 million by 2030. Furthermore, in the US alone, one in three elderly people dies from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
These increasing numbers of cases bring with them increasing challenges.
Feeding such patients is indeed one of the biggest challenges.
Poor nutrition increases the risk of dehydration, muscle loss, higher chances of infection, a decline in the overall well-being, and even death (4).
In the seven stages of Alzheimer’s a patient moves from their dementia being barely detectable to an extremely severe, steady, and visible decline (5).
It’s not abnormal for Alzheimer’s patients to stop eating or drinking in the later stages of their diagnosis.
Approximately 50 percent of diagnosed Alzheimer’s patients won’t eat enough food or drink sufficient fluids (1). The resulting weight loss develops into a larger problem as their disease progresses.
As per research, following are the four main reasons dementia patients stop eating and drinking as their disease progresses.
1. Dementia Affects Brain Areas Associated With Swallowing
Inability to swallow food is termed as dysphagia. The prevalence of dysphagia among elderly can be as high as 40 percent. This percentage is even higher among people with dementia (6).
But why is that?
Different types of dementia eventually lead to the shrinkage of the parts of the brain that coordinate swallowing. Consequently, the patients find it extremely hard to swallow as their disease progresses.
2. They are Unable to Communicate Their Hunger Effectively
Dementia patients may also not be able to effectively communicate their hunger or the fact that they don’t like the food they’re eating.
3. Their Interest Changes and They Might Forget What They Used to Like
Also, a patient’s appetite and interest in food could change. They may not taste food or experience flavor as they did before (7).
As people age, their taste buds diminish. It’s common for dementia patients to prefer eating heavy or flavor-filled foods, such as sugary sweets for snacks.
4. Their Eating Habits Might be Affected By Physical and Mental Well-Being
On top of the above, dementia patients could refuse to eat because they feel constipated, depressed, lonely, lethargic, or sore.
Appetite loss could also be a possible side effect of medication (7).
How to Help a Dementia Patient Eat?
If a dementia patient refuses to eat, it’s important to ensure they’re well hydrated. Dehydration is a cause of appetite loss. It’s also possible for elderly patients not to be sufficiently hydrated.
Because of this, they become dehydrated quicker and easier because of their age, body changes, or medication they’re taking.
Drinking water might be too plain and met with resistance. It’s useful to offer patients a soft, liquid meal such as cereal or soup instead.
Taking a look at the patient’s mouth will also reveal any redness or swelling that could cause a lack of interest in eating. A dental appointment could help to address any such concerns.
Some ways to encourage a dementia patient’s appetite include:
Setting up a daily meal routine
This assists the patient’s body with feeling more ready to eat at fixed times.
Offering the patient their favorite food
They may be more likely to eat something familiar that they recognize and love.
Giving the patient a choice of food
Using prompts or pictures may help patients show you what they’d like to eat or drink.
Making their food look, smell and taste as tempting as possible
Patients are more likely to show interest in food that catches their attention.
Involving the patient in meal preparation
A patient may be more willing to eat if they’ve helped prepare the food.
Trying various types and textures of food or drinks
Milkshakes, smoothies, jelly, naturally soft foods, and puréed vegetables are all easier to chew & swallow.
What Happens in The Last Stage of Dementia?
A patient could spend between approximately one and three years in the last severe stage of Alzheimer’s. Approximately 1.8 million US adults are in the final stages of dementia at the time of writing.
As the disease progresses, a patient can do less. They become increasingly dependent on others for assistance.
Eating and swallowing become more difficult during this stage. Sometimes patients won’t eat because they aren’t hungry or they’re simply confused.
Around the clock hospice care is usually administered to such patients.
How Long Can A Dementia Patient Live Without Eating?
When a dementia patient is no longer consuming fluids, and particularly if they’re bedridden, they may only live between a few days or at most a few short weeks.
Generally, when a patient is in the dying process they lose their appetite and sense of thirst.
While people can generally survive longer without eating than they would without drinking, a bedridden patient who’s not consuming sufficient food or drink in this last stage is unlikely to survive.
Are There Any Exceptions?
While some dementia patients eat too little, others overeat. Some dementia patients may eat too much food at a time or consume meals too often.
It’s also possible for patients to demonstrate excessive eating and other related eating behavioral changes because of changes in their dietary preferences.
They may even be obsessed with certain foods.
Conclusion
While many dementia patients do stop eating as their condition worsens, it’s possible to attempt to make their mealtimes more enjoyable.
Such patients may be more inclined to eat and drink if their mealtime is accompanied by activity and social stimulation.
By having some nostalgic conversations over a plate of food they may also be more inspired to eat or drink, and in turn, stay well-nourished and hydrated.
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References
1. Chia-Chi Chang, et al. Prevalence and factors associated with food intake difficulties among residents with dementia. PLoS One. 2017; 12(2): e0171770.
4. Jansen S, Ball L, Desbrow B, Morgan K, Moyle W, Hughes R. Nutrition and dementia care: Informing dietetic practice. Nutr Diet. 2015;72(1):36–46.
5. Craig J. Thalhauser, et al. Alzheimer’s disease: rapid and slow progression. J R Soc Interface. 2012 Jan 7; 9(66): 119–126.
6. Livia Sura, et al. Dysphagia in the elderly: management and nutritional considerations. Clin Interv Aging. 2012; 7: 287–298.
7. Suski NS, et al. Factors affecting food intake of women with Alzheimer’s type dementia in long-term care. J Am Diet Assoc. 1989 Dec;89(12):1770-3.
There is a pertinent question that everyone especially the elderly should know the answer to and that is: what conditions can be mistaken for dementia?
Disorders of the heart and lungs are some of the top answers available for anyone who asks what conditions can be mistaken for dementia.
This is mainly because the two organs provide nutrients and oxygen to the brain; hence, they are essential for normal functioning.
As people age, they may develop vascular diseases that interrupt cardiac output. Others can get lung diseases that affect oxygen delivery to the brain.
When this happens the affected person may have issues with executive function, memory, and alertness which can fool people into thinking that it is dementia.
UTI’s (Urinary Tract Infections)
Some seniors may experience sudden outbursts of confusion. In some cases, this may be a result of UTI.
Urinary tract infections occur when germs get into the urethra and make their way to the kidneys and bladder.
This often makes a person experience fever, painful urination, or abdominal pain.
Alongside these symptoms, elderly persons may also experience symptoms like withdrawal, mood swings, and agitation.
While UTIs and dementia may have similar symptoms, it does not automatically mean that an older person who has UTI has dementia.
Worth noting is that a majority of UTIs are treatable with rest, a lot of fluid, antibiotics, and a healthy diet.
Experts state that with early and timely treatment, individuals with NPH can regain their independence.
Sensory Limitations
Sensory issues like having problems with hearing and seeing can also create a picture where a person experiences worsening cognitive impairment.
Many people who cannot hear or see clearly prefer to stay on their own because they feel like other people do not understand what they are going through.
If this happens and a person is older, their loved ones might assume that they have dementia.
Depression
Before going in for a professional diagnosis, it is easy to conclude that a person has dementia when they are suffering from depression.
The two conditions have comparable symptoms like isolation, detachment, and declining interest in the things an individual loves.
With depression, however, it is possible to reverse the condition through regular exercise, medication, stress-reduction techniques like prayer, yoga, and medication, as well as cognitive therapy.
Delirium
Delirium happens when there is a sudden change in the brain that causes emotional disruption and mental confusion. It makes it hard to pay attention, think, sleep, remember, and many more.
This is another condition that can lead to dementia misdiagnosis.
Just like with many conditions that mimic dementia, delirium can be reversed as soon as doctors identify the cause of the condition.
This can happen when there are local effects of a tumor.
For instance, the tumor may be compressing or invading a brain tissue or it can harm the immune system by producing antibodies that fight the brain.
Subdural Hematoma
When a person has subdural hematoma, it means that there is abnormal bleeding which results in a build-up of blood around the tissue that surrounds the brain.
When the pressure goes on for long it can make a person develop dementia-like symptoms such as confusion, apathy, and behavioral changes.
This makes it one of the answers to what conditions can be mistaken for dementia.
Unlike dementia, however, subdural hematoma is treatable.
The hematoma can disappear on its own when it is not severe. Some people with hematoma may have to go through surgery to get rid of it.
Confusion
When an individual starts to have a hard time recognizing where they are or the time of the day, others will assume that he or she is in their first stages of dementia.
It mostly happens when they become agitated or anxious about their current situation.
At times, the confusion symptoms may come from different situations like dehydration, hunger, chest, or urinary infection.
Closing Remarks
Nowadays, dementia-like warning signs such as stress, fatigue, memory lapses, and many others are becoming more common.
When you start to showcase such, it is easy to think of the worst.
Thankfully, it is not all the time that you will get a positive dementia diagnosis from your doctor.
Above, we have listed a majority of the answers you will get when asking what conditions can be mistaken for dementia.
You will notice that many can be treated; thus, you will not be dealing with them for a lifetime.
