Can You Die From Dementia?
According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people live with dementia, with around 10 million new cases reported each year.
Dementia can be associated with symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, communication difficulties, agitation, and other distressing symptoms. It can also lead to a range of fatal complications. Deaths from Alzheimer’s have risen, while those from heart disease, a leading cause of death, have fallen.
If you or someone you know has dementia, it can be helpful to learn more about dementia and the long-term outlook of the condition to know how to best assist them (or yourself). In this article, we’ll explore some of the possible causes of death that can be associated with dementia, ways to reduce the risk of dementia formation, and resources for support for those affected by dementia.
Understanding dementia and its outlook
Dementia is not generally considered to be a specific disease. Instead, many experts use it as a term to describe a group of symptoms that can affect a person’s mental function—including their memory.
Alzheimer’s disease is reported to be the most common cause of dementia. However, there can also be other progressive dementias and disorders that can be linked to the disease. These can include vascular dementia, Lewy Body dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease.Possible causes of death that can be related to dementia
Some of the possible complications of dementia may include:
Pneumonia
Pneumonia, particularly aspiration pneumonia, is relatively common among older adults with dementia due to problems eating and swallowing, leading to food or liquids entering the lungs and causing inflammation or an infection. Pneumonia caused by these complications is one of the most common causes of death for individuals living with dementia.
Falls
People with dementia have a higher risk of falls due to problems with coordination and balance. Serious injuries to the body, including brain injuries or bone fractures, are possible, which may often require surgery and extended downtime.
Heart problems
Some people with later-stage dementia may have trouble managing various underlying conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes. These conditions may damage blood vessels and cause more severe problems, such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, which can lead to fatal complications in individuals living with dementia.
Eating difficulties
Some researchers note that eating problems can be the most common complication seen in those who live with advanced dementia. Related difficulties can include refusal to eat, the inability to feed oneself, and swallowing difficulties.
Viral infections
Viral infections like the flu or COVID-19 can be an underlying cause of death in people who live with dementia. That’s because they may be more prone to infections, which can escalate without treatment.
Urinary tract infections
People with dementia might not notice or tell others if they have a urinary tract infection (UTI), a common infection of the bladder. This happens because dementia can make it hard for them to communicate and because they might have trouble moving or controlling their bladder. If not treated, these infections can become serious and even deadly.
What is the prognosis for dementia?
There is not generally a definitive answer to this question, as the prognosis of dementia can differ depending on the person. However, some researchers note that the average duration of survival associated with someone who lives with dementia is seven to 10 years.
Decreasing your chances of getting dementia
At the time of this publication, many types of dementia may not be able to be cured or reversed. However, current research suggests that you may be able to take steps to reduce your risk of getting dementia.
Below, we’ve listed a few scientifically suggested strategies that can help:
Eat a healthy diet
If you’re looking to lower your dementia risk, it can be helpful to do your best to eat a healthy, balanced diet. This can be an important part of your overall health and well-being anyway and can actively reduce the risk of dementia while promoting a higher quality of life.
Exercise
You don’t necessarily have to engage in rigorous or demanding exercise to find benefits using this strategy. Even light exercise can be beneficial to your health and can include options such as walking, light jogging, or group exercise classes.
Refrain from smoking and limit drinking
Limiting these behaviors can improve your overall health. Drinking too much alcohol may worsen health conditions and can directly impact your risk of getting dementia. Smoking can as well, and it can also increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and lung disease.
Monitor blood pressure
Controlling high blood pressure can be an important part of reducing your risk of developing dementia. If you want to pursue this method of self-management, it’s generally best to talk to your physician about lifestyle changes or medication that might work best for you instead of doing it on your own.
Pay attention to your overall health
This can be a broad strategy to try, and it can include getting enough sleep, tending to your mental health, and keeping up with regular check-ups and health screenings.
Stay social
It can help to try to stay connected to your friends and family, as social connections are very important for overall health. Additionally, loneliness can be associated with an increased risk of dementia.
Treatment options and support
The appropriate course of treatment for dementia generally depends on the cause of dementia and the individual. However, many may find that there are a range of treatment options that can be made available to support their individual needs. Some of these can include therapies, lifestyle changes, and medications that can help manage symptoms.
Caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with dementia often can enjoy a range of available support options. For instance, you may find it helpful to connect with others going through a similar experience through a local or virtual support group.
How can online therapy support the loved ones of those who live with dementia?
Many may benefit from personalized support through in-person or online therapy. For some people who are caring for a loved one with dementia, it can feel challenging to take time for something like therapy, given the responsibilities on your plate. In these cases, online therapy may be a more convenient option, as you can have sessions wherever you have internet—which may be helpful if you don’t want to leave the house for extended periods of time.
Is online therapy effective?
Research has suggested that therapy can be an effective option to support family caregivers. Findings report that those who participate in therapy as they provide care for someone who lives with dementia may find help balancing new responsibilities, learning coping strategies to manage stress, and processing their feelings.
Takeaway
How long does someone with dementia live?
The life expectancy of someone with dementia can vary widely and is influenced by multiple factors, including the type of dementia, overall health, age at diagnosis, and individual characteristics. Dementia is a progressive condition, and the trajectory can differ significantly from person to person.
In general, individuals with dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, often live for several years after their diagnosis. However, the rate of decline and the specific challenges faced can vary. Some people may live for a decade or more after being diagnosed, while others may experience a more rapid decline.
How does dementia lead to death?
The answer to the question, “Does dementia kill you?” is complex. Dementia itself is not typically listed as a direct cause of death on death certificates. Instead, dementia-related deaths may often be related to complications or coexisting health issues that contribute to their decline and eventual death. Here are several ways in which dementia can be the underlying cause of death:
- Infections: Individuals with advanced dementia may have a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections. These infections can be serious and, if not properly treated, may lead to complications.
- Pneumonia: As dementia progresses, individuals may have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), leading to an increased risk of aspirating food or liquids into the lungs. This can result in pneumonia, which is a common cause of death in individuals with advanced dementia.
- Malnutrition and Dehydration: Difficulty with eating and drinking, coupled with forgetfulness or lack of interest in food, can lead to malnutrition and dehydration. These conditions can contribute to a decline in overall health and, in some cases, may be life-threatening.
- Complications from Falls: Individuals with dementia may experience a decline in motor skills and coordination, leading to an increased risk of falls. Falls can result in fractures or other injuries, which may lead to complications and contribute to a decline in health.
- Wandering and Accidents: Wandering behavior is common in some types of dementia. Individuals may become disoriented and wander into unsafe areas, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries.
- Overall Physical Decline: The general physical decline associated with advanced dementia, including loss of muscle mass, blood supply to the brain, mobility issues, and overall frailty, can contribute to a decreased ability to fight off infections and cope with stressors.
Individuals with dementia may require end-of-life care that may involve full-time care from a medical professional. Dementia care at this stage may focus on lifestyle factors that ensure a person’s safety and comfort.
What happens right before a dementia patient dies?
The experiences of individuals with dementia in the final stages of life can vary, and there is no universal pattern of events that occurs right before death. However, some common observations and occurrences in the final stages of dementia may include:
- Reduced Communication: Individuals in the advanced stages of dementia may experience a significant decline in verbal communication. They may become nonverbal or communicate through gestures and nonverbal cues.
- Decreased Mobility: Mobility and motor skills may decline further, leading to increased difficulty with movement and coordination. Individuals may become bedridden or experience limitations in their ability to sit up or move independently.
- Changes in Eating and Drinking: There may be a reduced interest in food and fluids, and individuals may experience difficulty swallowing. This can contribute to weight loss and dehydration.
- Changes in Breathing Patterns: Changes in breathing patterns, such as irregular or labored breathing, are common in the final stages. Some individuals may experience periods of rapid breathing followed by slower breathing.
- Increased Sleepiness: A gradual increase in drowsiness and extended periods of sleep are common. Individuals may spend more time sleeping and become less responsive to external stimuli.
- Changes in Awareness: There may be a decreased level of awareness of the surrounding environment and a reduced ability to recognize or interact with loved ones.
What are 3 things to never do with your loved one with dementia?
Caring for a loved one with dementia requires patience, understanding, and a compassionate approach. Here are three things to avoid when interacting with your loved one with dementia:
Never argue or correct:
Arguing with or correcting a person with dementia, especially regarding facts or memories, can lead to frustration and agitation. Dementia often affects memory and cognitive function, and correction may not be understood or remembered. Instead, focus on empathetic listening and validation of their feelings.
Avoid using condescending language:
Speaking to a person with dementia as if they were a child or using overly simplified language can be demeaning and make them feel disrespected. Treat them with the same dignity and respect you would accord to anyone else. Use a calm and reassuring tone, and maintain eye contact to help convey understanding and connection.
Never neglect self-care:
Caregivers often dedicate themselves to the well-being of their loved ones, but it's crucial not to neglect their own physical and emotional well-being. Caring for someone with dementia can be demanding, and burnout is a real risk. Take breaks, seek support from friends or support groups, and prioritize self-care to maintain your own health and resilience.
What are the 7 stages of dementia?
The concept of "stages" in dementia, often associated with the Global Deterioration Scale (GDS), is primarily used to describe the progression of Alzheimer's disease. It's important to note that these stages provide a general framework, and the experience of dementia can vary widely among individuals. The seven stages, as described by the GDS, are as follows:
Stage 1: No impairment (normal functioning):
In the early stages of dementia, there are no noticeable cognitive decline or memory problems. The individual functions normally without any signs of dementia.
Stage 2: Very mild cognitive decline (age-associated memory impairment):
Some individuals may experience slight memory lapses, such as forgetting names or the location of everyday objects. These lapses are often attributed to normal aging.
Stage 3: Mild cognitive decline (early-stage Alzheimer's):
Family and friends may begin to notice cognitive changes. Common symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty finding words, and challenges in planning or organizing as brain cells become more impacted by the disease.
Stage 4: Moderate cognitive decline (mild Alzheimer's):
At this stage, noticeable cognitive decline occurs, with difficulties in areas such as concentration, memory, and problem-solving. Individuals may struggle with managing finances or remembering recent events.
Stage 5: Moderately severe cognitive decline (moderate Alzheimer's):
Daily functioning becomes significantly impaired. Assistance may be needed with activities of daily living (ADLs), and memory gaps become more pronounced. Behavioral changes may also occur.
Stage 6: Severe cognitive decline (moderately severe Alzheimer's):
Individuals in the later stages of dementia experience substantial cognitive decline. Memory deficits are severe, and there may be a loss of awareness of recent events and surroundings. Assistance is needed for basic self-care tasks.
Stage 7: Very severe cognitive decline (severe Alzheimer's):
In late-stage dementia, individuals lose the ability to communicate coherently and independently perform basic functions. They may lose the ability to walk, sit up, or smile. Total care and support are required.
What causes dementia to get worse?
The progression of dementia can be influenced by various factors, and while some contributors are not entirely within our control, others can be managed to some extent. Here are several factors that can contribute to the worsening of dementia:
- Underlying Health Conditions: Coexisting health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or infections, can contribute to the acceleration of dementia symptoms.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications prescribed for dementia or other health conditions may have side effects that impact cognitive function. Monitoring and adjusting medications as needed is crucial.
- Lack of Physical Exercise: Regular physical exercise has been associated with cognitive health. Lack of physical activity may contribute to the progression of dementia symptoms.
- Social Isolation: Lack of social engagement and isolation can negatively impact cognitive function. Maintaining social connections and participating in meaningful activities are important for cognitive health.
- Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients may contribute to the worsening of dementia symptoms. Nutritional factors play a role in overall brain health.
- Chronic Stress: Prolonged exposure to stress can have negative effects on cognitive function. Stress management techniques may be beneficial for individuals with dementia.
What does Stage 7 dementia look like?
In Stage 7 of dementia, also known as the "Very Severe Cognitive Decline" stage, individuals experience profound cognitive and functional decline. This stage is associated with severe impairment in all areas of cognitive function and the loss of the ability to perform basic activities of daily living. Here are some characteristics and features of Stage 7 dementia:
- Communication: Individuals in Stage 7 often lose the ability to communicate verbally. They may produce only simple sounds or may become nonverbal. Understanding and responding to spoken language become extremely limited.
- Mobility: Motor skills and mobility decline significantly. Individuals may lose the ability to walk, sit up, or control movements. They may become bedridden or require a wheelchair for mobility.
- Functional Abilities: There is a profound loss of independence in performing basic activities of daily living (ADLs). Individuals require assistance with tasks such as feeding, toileting, dressing, and grooming.
- Awareness and Recognition: Awareness of the environment and recognition of people, including close family members, may be severely impaired or absent. Individuals may not recognize familiar surroundings or loved ones.
- Continence: Control over bladder and bowel function may be lost, requiring assistance with continence care.
- Swallowing Difficulties: Individuals may experience difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), leading to the need for modified diets or feeding through alternative methods, such as a feeding tube.
What do dementia patients think about?
The thoughts and experiences of individuals with dementia can vary widely based on the type and stage of dementia, as well as the individual's unique personality and life experiences. Here are some general considerations:
- Memories and Past Experiences: In the earlier stages of dementia, individuals may still have access to memories and thoughts about their past. They might reminisce about significant life events, relationships, and experiences.
- Immediate Environment: Individuals with dementia may be more focused on their immediate surroundings and the people present. However, their interpretation of the environment might be influenced by the cognitive changes they are experiencing.
- Emotional States: Emotions often play a significant role in the thoughts of individuals with dementia. They may experience a range of emotions, including joy, sadness, confusion, or frustration. Emotional memories can persist even when specific details are forgotten.
- Basic Needs and Comfort: Individuals with dementia may be preoccupied with basic needs such as hunger, thirst, or discomfort. Ensuring their physical well-being is a priority.
How fast does dementia progress?
The progression of dementia is highly variable and can depend on several factors, including the type of dementia, individual characteristics, overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions. Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms typically worsen over time, but the rate of progression can differ significantly from person to person.
What do dementia eyes look like?
The appearance of a person's eyes does not specifically indicate dementia. However, some individuals with dementia may exhibit changes in their gaze or eye movements due to cognitive and neurological changes associated with the condition. It's important to note that these changes can vary widely among individuals, and not everyone with dementia will experience the same visual symptoms.
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