10 Signs death is near for dementia patients

06/04/25 at 03:00 AM

10 Signs death is near for dementia patients 
The Healthy; by Dr. Patricia Varacollo, DO; 6/2/25 
For families and caregivers, recognizing the final stages of dementia can be difficult, but understanding the signs can help ensure comfort and dignity in a loved one's last days. Dr. Koncilja highlights these key indicators that may suggest the end of life is near:

  1. A noticeable shift in behavior: ...
  2. Loss of appetite: ...
  3. Difficulty swallowing: ...
  4. Reduced interest in food: ...
  5. Profound fatigue: ...
  6. Muscle weakness: ...
  7. Communication struggles: ...
  8. Increased confusion or disorientation: ...
  9. Changes in breathing: ...
  10. Loss of mobility: ...

Editor's note: What simple, visible referral tools do you provide for the ALF, LTC, SNF, and other senior/memory care facilities you serve? For more information, visit the national Alzheimer's Association, Stages of Alzheimer's.  Its full page details an Overview, Early-stage Alzheimer's (mild), Middle-stage Alzheimer's (moderate), and Late-stage Alzheimer's (severe). 

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