In the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, you will have to speak for the person with dementia and tell medical providers what type of care the person had said he wanted when he could still communicate his wishes.

NOTE: Even when a person is in the early stage of AD, he may be in the late stage of another illness. The effects of both conditions on the person's decision-making ability and the likely outcome of a medical procedure should be taken into account when making decisions about the kind of care needed or whether it should be provided.

Remember: A person with Alzheimer’s disease may not be able to tell you he is sick but may show you instead. Increased confusion, listlessness, change in walking, being less attentive, and loss of interest in eating may signal a physical illness.