Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Patients in the Final Stages

One of the most prominent signs in the final stages of Alzheimer's disease is the complete inability to eat or drink. At this point, patients are no longer able to consume food orally or even tolerate feeding tubes. This prolonged lack of nutrition leads to severe weight loss, dehydration, and a condition known as cachexia, where the body becomes extremely weak and frail. As the body begins to shut down, breathing patterns change, often showing signs of Cheyne-Stokes respiration—alternating between periods of deep and shallow breathing—eventually leading to respiratory failure and death.

Complications in the Final Stage

As Alzheimer's progresses to its final stage, patients often experience a range of severe complications. Their level of consciousness gradually decreases, transitioning from excessive drowsiness to unresponsiveness, and eventually coma. Incontinence of both bladder and bowel is also common during this time.

Infections and Organ Failure

Many patients develop serious infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or experience choking episodes that can lead to aspiration pneumonia. Pressure ulcers, or bedsores, may also develop due to immobility, and these wounds can become infected and emit a foul odor. Additionally, organ failure—particularly of the liver and kidneys—often occurs. These complications arise because the patient has lost the ability to speak, swallow, or move independently.

Other Life-Threatening Conditions

Some patients may also develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to leg swelling and potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. Breathing difficulties become more frequent, and the risk of sudden death increases due to these circulatory and respiratory complications.