Which Alzheimer's symptoms get worse over time?

3 answers | Last updated: Aug 23, 2010
SEPTEMBER asked...
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Caring.com User - Joyce Simard
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A social worker and geriatric consultant who specializes in dementia care, Joyce Simard is based in Land O' Lakes, Florida, and in Prague. She...
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Joyce Simard said...

Your mother-in-law is probably approaching the advanced stage of Alzheimer's disease. Her symptoms will become more debilitating as the disease progresses. Her difficulty swallowing may be the first acute symptom See also:
Is it common to have hallucinations with Alzheimer's?

See all 660 questions about Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
you will face. Make sure everyone who cares for her learns what to do if she chokes. I hope you have also thought about what you will do if she stops eating or can no longer swallow. Tube feeding for people with advanced dementia has shown to be more of a burden than a benefit to the patient. Discuss this matter now with her physician and her family so you will be prepared if this becomes a critical issue. You can also expect that eventually she will become incontinent of bowel and bladder. Expect her ability to walk to become seriously impaired and she may need some type of assistive device, perhaps a walker, wheelchair when she is out of bed. At some point hospice can become involved so you might call them to help you understand when this wonderful service will be available to you.

When you look for engaging someone to help her, ask the agency what type of dementia training they have for their staff.

She will no doubt continue to love being with the dogs and enjoy your companionship. And, usually ice cream works! You just want to keep her happy and pain free at this stage of her disease.

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September - I credit you and your husband for your selfless time, love and patience. In today's world, your care is inspirational. Joyce had some wonderful information about what to expect and knowledge is key when dealing with Alzheimer's. There are varying costs for home health aides depending on the level of care required. The hourly rates range from $18 - $30 hour. Make sure to look at a few agencies and as Joyce said, please inquire as to their experience with Dementia patients.

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cool said...

I think Joyce is a wonderfull person, I have a husban with the decease he also is happy allmost allways wich makes it easyer on me I am shure down the road I will need help, but for now we are ok as long as I remember to make shure he gets his medication, (wich I have forgotten several times)that right now is hard for me Glad to have some Idea what to expect. keep up the good work Joyce. What a wonderfull world this would be with more Joyce in the world Paula

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