Alzheimer’s disease is a terrible condition that robs a person of their identity and ability to cognitively function. It also is devastating to the family of the patient.
If you have a loved one with the disease, you likely know that he or she requires special care. As the disease progresses, even more targeted care is necessary to keep him or her safe and healthy. It is essential that the long-term care facility your loved one lives in has the capabilities to offer this type of care.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, once the disease reaches the late stages, your loved one will need a high level of care to avoid complications.
Higher chance of illnesses
A person with late-stage Alzheimer’s will be more susceptible to infections and serious illnesses, such as pneumonia. Caregivers will have to watch closely for any signs of illness and get treatment for the person as quickly as possible to avoid problems.
Trouble with general functioning
Your loved one also will have trouble doing essential tasks, such as eating and walking. He or she will require assistance with everything at this point. An Alzheimer’s patient needs to have constant care and someone watching over him or her at all times.
Loss of memory
The biggest impact in the late stages is that your loved one’s memory will be non-existent. He or she will no longer recognize anyone. The person may forget how to do routine activities and may even regress to acting like a child. This is the most devastating part of this disease because the person will no longer be like the person you once knew.
An important thing to keep in mind about late-stage Alzheimer’s disease is the focus must be on the quality of life. He or she will not get better, but the long-term care choices you make should do everything possible to ensure the person lives the best and most comfortable life possible.
