How does a person die from dementia?
For individuals living with dementia and their loved ones, the journey can be incredibly frightening and uncertain. One of the hardest parts is facing the unknown: What will happen next? How will the condition progress? How does dementia lead to death? These questions weigh heavily on families and can leave them feeling powerless.
This article sheds light on what to expect as dementia advances, from its impact on the body to how it leads to the final stages of life.
Note: While we hope to offer clarity and guidance, please remember that every person’s experience is unique. It’s essential to speak with a medical professional for advice tailored to your loved one’s situation.
How dementia affects the brain and body
Dementia is a progressive condition that kills brain cells, leading to problems with:
- Thought
- Memory
- Understanding
- Communication
- Bodily functions (like breathing, circulation, and digestion)
It gradually affects the blood supply to parts of the brain, ultimately becoming a terminal illness. In very rare cases, symptoms can worsen dramatically over weeks or months – a pattern known as rapidly progressive dementia (RPD), which may be triggered by underlying neurological conditions.
Dementia damages different areas of the brain depending on its type and stage. For example, Alzheimer’s disease impacts the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex, areas crucial for memory formation and recall.
Other common types of dementia include:
- Vascular dementia develops from reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or small vessel disease. It affects the brain’s ability to think, plan, and remember, leading to confusion and difficulty making decisions.
- Lewy body dementia occurs when abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) form in the brain, impacting memory, movement, and mood, often resulting in visual hallucinations and fluctuating alertness.
- Frontotemporal dementia happens when the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain are damaged by abnormal protein buildup, leading to impulsive behavior and difficulty with speech.
As the disease progresses, some individuals may become more irritable, anxious, or physically aggressive – behaviors often seen in what we describe as the dementia aggression stage, when changes in the brain affect emotional control and communication.
The average life expectancy of people diagnosed with dementia ranges from:
- 9 years at age 60
- 4.5 years at age 85
Find out more about the seven stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Common causes of death in people with dementia
Why is dementia fatal? The truth is that dementia causes death in various ways. Understanding the common causes of death in dementia can help you prepare for what lies ahead and provide the right support to your loved ones when the time comes.
Here are some of the common causes of death in people with dementia:
Aspiration and infections
People with dementia are more prone to pneumonia and respiratory infections due to weakened immunity and trouble clearing the lungs. The brain controls our ability to coordinate swallowing and breathing, and in the end stages of dementia, this skill is lost.
Your loved one may inhale food or fluids, leading to choking and chest infections known as aspiration pneumonias, which can be life-threatening. Studies consistently report pneumonia as the leading cause of death in people with dementia:
- Autopsy studies show pneumonia as the leading cause of death in 38% – 66% of dementia cases.
Early recognition and prompt medical care are key to managing symptoms and ensuring comfort.
Related topic: Scam prevention for people with dementia
Complications from coexisting conditions
Many people with dementia also have other chronic conditions:
- 44% have hypertension.
- 17% – 20% have diabetes, stroke, transient ischaemic attack (TIA), coronary heart disease (CHD), or depression.
- 9% – 11% have Parkinsonism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or asthma.
Dementia complicates the management of overall health, increasing the likelihood of complications from these conditions. For example, a person with dementia might forget to take medication for high blood pressure.
You can help loved ones by setting up medication reminders, organizing medications in pillboxes, or using alarms to prompt daily tasks. Ensuring they receive the right professional care, like regular check-ups with doctors or visits from at-home carers, can make a significant difference in maintaining their well-being.
Nutritional problems and dehydration
In the later stages of dementia, individuals often struggle to eat well and stay hydrated. They may find it challenging to buy and prepare meals, lose their appetite, and experience weight loss. Towards the end of the illness, they may also lose muscle control, making it difficult to chew and swallow.
Without sufficient food and fluids, the body weakens rapidly. Malnutrition and dehydration compromise the immune system, increasing the risk of infections and organ failure. Caregivers can help by offering soft foods, preparing meals, and encouraging regular drinking. A healthcare team can monitor nutrition and suggest supplements to ensure comfort and dignity.
Falls and related injuries
Dementia can impair mobility, stability, and spatial awareness, increasing the risk of falls and dangerous fractures. Studies show that older individuals with dementia experience eight times more falls than those without dementia.
Simple changes like clearing trip hazards, adding grab bars, and improving lighting can make homes much safer. With extra support during daily routines, caregivers can help protect loved ones from falls while supporting their independence.
Looking for more guidance?
Download our free care guide.
Continence and self-care
Toileting and managing personal hygiene become increasingly difficult as dementia progresses. In the late stages, many individuals lose control of their bladder and bowels, raising the risk of urinary infections, which can be deadly for those with weakened immune systems.
Creating a regular toileting routine, using incontinence products, and maintaining skin health are essential. As needs increase, professional or at-home carers can provide comfort, dignity, and quality of life during this challenging stage.
Find out more about using private carers.
Skin ulcers
Dementia leads to a progressive decline in physical function, increasing the risk of pressure sores and ulcers due to immobility. These sores can be painful and lead to serious health risks when infected.
A study found that 47.4% of patients with advanced dementia had one or more pressure ulcers. Regular repositioning can relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, and pressure-relieving cushions can help prevent sores.
If pressure sores do occur, it’s crucial to clean the area gently and apply appropriate treatments to prevent infection. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on managing sores and ensuring comfort.
Advanced dementia and system failure
In the final stages of dementia, extensive brain damage leads to the failure of vital bodily systems, affecting:
- Heart function and circulation
- Breathing patterns
- Temperature regulation
- Immune system response
This widespread system failure ultimately leads to death in the terminal phase of dementia. Your loved one may spend most of their time resting, and as the body weakens, the risk of infections and breathing difficulties grows. At this stage, the focus shifts to comfort and quality of life.
Gentle repositioning, pain relief, and a calm environment can help. Bringing in end-of-life care professionals can ensure your loved one remains as comfortable and peaceful as possible.
Finding support and understanding in the final stages of dementia
While the experience can feel isolating, support is available. Nearly one million people were living with dementia in 2024, and that number is expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040. With the right support and care, you can help your loved one live well with dementia and die with dignity. Explore our specialist dementia care services.
For individuals living with dementia and their loved ones, the journey can be incredibly frightening and uncertain. One of the hardest parts is facing the unknown: What will happen next? How will the condition progress? How does dementia lead to death? These questions weigh heavily on families and can leave them feeling powerless.
This article sheds light on what to expect as dementia advances, from its impact on the body to how it leads to the final stages of life.
Note: While we hope to offer clarity and guidance, please remember that every person’s experience is unique. It’s essential to speak with a medical professional for advice tailored to your loved one’s situation.
How dementia affects the brain and body
Dementia is a progressive condition that kills brain cells, leading to problems with:
- Thought
- Memory
- Understanding
- Communication
- Bodily functions (like breathing, circulation, and digestion)
It gradually affects the blood supply to parts of the brain, ultimately becoming a terminal illness. In very rare cases, symptoms can worsen dramatically over weeks or months – a pattern known as rapidly progressive dementia (RPD), which may be triggered by underlying neurological conditions.
Dementia damages different areas of the brain depending on its type and stage. For example, Alzheimer’s disease impacts the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex, areas crucial for memory formation and recall.
Other common types of dementia include:
- Vascular dementia develops from reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or small vessel disease. It affects the brain’s ability to think, plan, and remember, leading to confusion and difficulty making decisions.
- Lewy body dementia occurs when abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) form in the brain, impacting memory, movement, and mood, often resulting in visual hallucinations and fluctuating alertness.
- Frontotemporal dementia happens when the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain are damaged by abnormal protein buildup, leading to impulsive behavior and difficulty with speech.
As the disease progresses, some individuals may become more irritable, anxious, or physically aggressive – behaviors often seen in what we describe as the dementia aggression stage, when changes in the brain affect emotional control and communication.
The average life expectancy of people diagnosed with dementia ranges from:
- 9 years at age 60
- 4.5 years at age 85
Find out more about the seven stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Common causes of death in people with dementia
Why is dementia fatal? The truth is that dementia causes death in various ways. Understanding the common causes of death in dementia can help you prepare for what lies ahead and provide the right support to your loved ones when the time comes.
Here are some of the common causes of death in people with dementia:
Aspiration and infections
People with dementia are more prone to pneumonia and respiratory infections due to weakened immunity and trouble clearing the lungs. The brain controls our ability to coordinate swallowing and breathing, and in the end stages of dementia, this skill is lost.
Your loved one may inhale food or fluids, leading to choking and chest infections known as aspiration pneumonias, which can be life-threatening. Studies consistently report pneumonia as the leading cause of death in people with dementia:
- Autopsy studies show pneumonia as the leading cause of death in 38% – 66% of dementia cases.
Early recognition and prompt medical care are key to managing symptoms and ensuring comfort.
Related topic: Scam prevention for people with dementia
Complications from coexisting conditions
Many people with dementia also have other chronic conditions:
- 44% have hypertension.
- 17% – 20% have diabetes, stroke, transient ischaemic attack (TIA), coronary heart disease (CHD), or depression.
- 9% – 11% have Parkinsonism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or asthma.
Dementia complicates the management of overall health, increasing the likelihood of complications from these conditions. For example, a person with dementia might forget to take medication for high blood pressure.
You can help loved ones by setting up medication reminders, organizing medications in pillboxes, or using alarms to prompt daily tasks. Ensuring they receive the right professional care, like regular check-ups with doctors or visits from at-home carers, can make a significant difference in maintaining their well-being.
Nutritional problems and dehydration
In the later stages of dementia, individuals often struggle to eat well and stay hydrated. They may find it challenging to buy and prepare meals, lose their appetite, and experience weight loss. Towards the end of the illness, they may also lose muscle control, making it difficult to chew and swallow.
Without sufficient food and fluids, the body weakens rapidly. Malnutrition and dehydration compromise the immune system, increasing the risk of infections and organ failure. Caregivers can help by offering soft foods, preparing meals, and encouraging regular drinking. A healthcare team can monitor nutrition and suggest supplements to ensure comfort and dignity.
Falls and related injuries
Dementia can impair mobility, stability, and spatial awareness, increasing the risk of falls and dangerous fractures. Studies show that older individuals with dementia experience eight times more falls than those without dementia.
Simple changes like clearing trip hazards, adding grab bars, and improving lighting can make homes much safer. With extra support during daily routines, caregivers can help protect loved ones from falls while supporting their independence.
Looking for more guidance?
Download our free care guide.
Continence and self-care
Toileting and managing personal hygiene become increasingly difficult as dementia progresses. In the late stages, many individuals lose control of their bladder and bowels, raising the risk of urinary infections, which can be deadly for those with weakened immune systems.
Creating a regular toileting routine, using incontinence products, and maintaining skin health are essential. As needs increase, professional or at-home carers can provide comfort, dignity, and quality of life during this challenging stage.
Find out more about using private carers.
Skin ulcers
Dementia leads to a progressive decline in physical function, increasing the risk of pressure sores and ulcers due to immobility. These sores can be painful and lead to serious health risks when infected.
A study found that 47.4% of patients with advanced dementia had one or more pressure ulcers. Regular repositioning can relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, and pressure-relieving cushions can help prevent sores.
If pressure sores do occur, it’s crucial to clean the area gently and apply appropriate treatments to prevent infection. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on managing sores and ensuring comfort.
Advanced dementia and system failure
In the final stages of dementia, extensive brain damage leads to the failure of vital bodily systems, affecting:
- Heart function and circulation
- Breathing patterns
- Temperature regulation
- Immune system response
This widespread system failure ultimately leads to death in the terminal phase of dementia. Your loved one may spend most of their time resting, and as the body weakens, the risk of infections and breathing difficulties grows. At this stage, the focus shifts to comfort and quality of life.
Gentle repositioning, pain relief, and a calm environment can help. Bringing in end-of-life care professionals can ensure your loved one remains as comfortable and peaceful as possible.
Finding support and understanding in the final stages of dementia
While the experience can feel isolating, support is available. Nearly one million people were living with dementia in 2024, and that number is expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040. With the right support and care, you can help your loved one live well with dementia and die with dignity. Explore our specialist dementia care services.
