On average, people with vascular dementia live for around five years after symptoms begin, less than the average for Alzheimer’s disease. Because vascular dementia shares many of the same risk factors as heart attack and stroke, in many cases, the person’s death will be caused by a stroke or heart attack.

How long can an elderly person live with Alzheimer’s?

On average, a person with Alzheimer’s lives four to eight years after diagnosis, but can live as long as 20 years, depending on other factors. Changes in the brain related to Alzheimer’s begin years before any signs of the disease.

Is it true that my mother has dementia?

You say your mother has early signs of dementia, and it is true that “personality changes” can be due to an underlying dementia, such as fronto-temporal dementia or Alzheimer’s, especially if a family notices other changes in memory or thinking abilities.

How to take care of an aging parent with dementia?

Or consider an online course, such as the Johns Hopkins MOOC about dementia. Another option would be dementia management videos, such as those by Teepa Snow. Pick whatever method of education works best for your style of learning. Remember to take deep breaths, and to take care of yourself.

Is it possible for dementia to be exacerbated?

It’s also common for dementia to be exacerbated by additional problems – like electrolyte imbalances, medication side-effects, untreated pain, or even constipation — which can be treated, even though a disease such as Alzheimer’s can’t be cured. So you really want at least a preliminary clinical dementia evaluation to be completed.

What happens when a family member is diagnosed with dementia?

A dementia diagnosis will also make it easier for you to get help as a family caregiver. Difficult behaviors are often managed with medications, but it’s true that these generally increase fall risk, so they should be avoided.