When do Alzheimer’s patients stop walking?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that causes dementia symptoms. In its earliest stages, symptoms are typically limited to above ordinary forgetfulness and memory difficulties before losing memories related to personal history and familiar objects. In its final stage, Alzheimer’s affects the ability to care for oneself, motor control, swallowing, and to walk.

Alzheimer’s disease is at work in the brain before the first symptoms begin to emerge. In the earliest stage, people may have trouble recalling the right word or name, difficulty retaining new information, losing objects without the ability to retrace steps to locate them, and trouble planning and organizing. In the beginning, symptoms may be so mild that only the patient and those closest to them notice. People in the early stages of the disease can often continue to live independently.

In the middle stages of Alzheimer’s, symptoms become more pronounced. The diagnosed person may become forgetful of personal history, experience unusual mood swings, become frustrated in social and mentally challenging situations, become unable to recall information about themselves, lose track of time and date, have difficulty making choices, and have trouble controlling their bladder or bowels. This stage of the illness lasts the longest for most people. During the stage, living assistance is often required.

In the final stage of Alzheimer’s, symptoms are most severe. The patient loses the ability to engage with their environment, communicate, and control movement. This is when the ability to walk becomes impaired. In this stage, people also become vulnerable to infections. It is at this stage of the illness that the most intensive care is required for the person.

Caregivers may find themselves in a stressful situation as they work to preserve the quality of life and dignity with Alzheimer’s. Soothing activities for people in the late stage of the condition are helpful. Gentleness during this stage is a must. Caregivers can benefit from support from others in a caregiver role through support groups and counseling.

If you have questions about Alzheimer’s, talk with your trusted medical provider, or reach out to the Alzheimer’s Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.