What to Expect as Dementia Progresses

While each person’s journey with dementia is unique, each diagnosis follows the same pattern of progression. Understanding this pattern can help you provide better support for your loved one as you prepare for what’s ahead.

The James L. West Center for Dementia Care offers a continuum of programs and services to support caregivers and those living with dementia during every stage of the disease. From education and support groups to care at home, the Senior Day Program, and full-time residential care, James L. West has the care and support you need for every step of the journey.

Here’s what to expect as dementia progresses.

Early Stage: Subtle Shifts

In the early stages of dementia, changes in your loved one can be easy to overlook. They may be mostly independent, doing things for themselves, and staying socially active.

However, this is also the stage where small changes begin to appear. “They may start misplacing items, have trouble finding the right words, or become easily irritated,” says Jaime Cobb Tinsley, vice president of caregiver and community education at James L. West Center for Dementia.

Cobb Tinsley recommends using this stage to get you and your loved one into a routine filled with cognitive stimulation, rest and familiar activities. She also says this is the time to get legal, medical and financial affairs in order.

“Involve your loved one in the financial and medical decisions. They should have input about what they want,” says Cobb Tinsley.

These early stages are also the time to consider medications. While dementia can’t be cured, there are some medications that help manage symptoms or slow the progression.

This is also the time to learn as much as possible about the dementia journey and build a caregiver support network. The James L. West Center offers free caregiver education classes and support groups that connect you with information and resources to sustain you throughout the journey.

Middle Stage: Increased Dependence

As dementia progresses, so does the need for support. Your loved one will increasingly need assistance with daily tasks. Language also becomes more limited during this stage.

“The middle stage is where it becomes difficult for them to follow a conversation. They may also stop reading, and even TV shows can become too hard to follow,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Cobb Tinsley says the middle stage is when caregivers must adapt emotionally and practically. “Be ready for good days and bad days. Just don’t take the bad days personally,” she says

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but developing coping skills and tools can help. Don’t hesitate to seek out support groups, educational groups, or professional help.

The James L. West Center’s Senior Day Program on Harris Parkway and new Home Care Services can also provide much-needed care and support during the middle stages of dementia. Whether you choose to bring your loved one to the Day Program or utilize in-home services, your loved one will receive expert, compassionate care that extends your ability to care for them at home.

Late Stage: Full-Time Care

In the final stage of dementia, your loved one will need total care. Their ability to communicate or recognize loved ones may be completely gone.

“The late stage is when gross and fine motor skills are severely affected. They’ll also start to lose weight as eating becomes difficult and may spend the majority of the time sleeping or semi-alert,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Ways to stay connected to your loved one and provide comfort during this stage include playing calming music, offering gentle touch, and creating a soothing environment.

Cobb Tinsley recommends using this time to revisit care plans for your loved one.

“Maybe you promised early in the diagnosis that you’d keep them home. But in some cases, as the disease progresses, palliative or hospice care becomes the best option,” she says.

When that time comes, the team at The West Center will help make the transition as seamless as possible.

Enhancing Quality of Life

As dementia progresses, there are countless ways to enhance your loved one’s quality of life. Social interactions, going for walks, and journaling can make a significant difference.

As a caregiver, your quality of life should also be prioritized.

“You can’t do this alone. Let your friends and family know exactly how they can help support you,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Dementia has no cure. But by understanding how it progresses, it can be treated with dignity and compassion.

For more tips on what to expect as dementia progresses, explore the James L. West Center for Dementia Care’s free caregiver education series.