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:
- A noticeable shift in behavior: ...
- Loss of appetite: ...
- Difficulty swallowing: ...
- Reduced interest in food: ...
- Profound fatigue: ...
- Muscle weakness: ...
- Communication struggles: ...
- Increased confusion or disorientation: ...
- Changes in breathing: ...
- 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).