Donate now See menu Shop Support line Search Home About dementia Symptoms and diagnosis Supporting a person in the later stages of dementia Supporting a person in the later stages of dementia The later stages of dementia can be a challenging time both for the person experiencing dementia and for those close to them. Find out what you can expect and where you can get help and support. You are here: Supporting a person in the later stages of dementia Symptoms and memory in the later stages of dementia Mental and physical abilities in the later stages Communication in the later stages of dementia Eating and weight loss in the later stages of dementia Changes of behaviour in the later stages of dementia Health problems in the later stages Treatment and care in the later stages Later stages of dementia - more resources The later stages of dementia Save this information Get a copy What to expect in the later stages of dementia When a person is in the later stages of dementia they are likely to be much more frail. This is sometimes also known as severe or advanced dementia. The later stages can be hard to define and everyone will go through them in their own way. Advice The progression and stages of dementia Dementia is progressive. This means symptoms may be relatively mild at first but they get worse with time. Dementia affects everyone differently, however it can be helpful to think of dementia progressing in 'three stages'. However, a person in the later stages is likely to experience severe memory loss, problems with communication and daily activities, and greater changes in behaviour and physical problems than in the earlier stages. They will probably rely on others for much of their care. Some people may not want to know what to expect in the later stages and it is important to respect this. However, knowing what to expect can help the person and those supporting them to plan ahead for the treatment and care they may want. This guide is for anyone supporting someone in the later stages of dementia. It includes information on symptoms in the later stages of dementia and the care and support available. It also includes advice on how to support the person and plan ahead for the later stages. Caring for somebody in the later stages of dementia Caring for a person in the later stages of dementia can be rewarding, but also very challenging. When a person with dementia moves into residential care, it can have a big impact on the carer as well. It is important to seek support for any feelings you might have. Dementia Connect support line 0333 150 3456 Our dementia advisers are here for you. Think this page could be useful to someone? Share it: Previous Section You are on the first page Next Section 2. Symptoms and memory in the later stages of dementia Categories Later stages of dementia, Support for carers Further reading What kind of information would you like to read? Use the button below to choose between help, advice and real stories. Decide what you see My dad is in the final stages of mixed dementia and I hope he goes in peace Real stories Loraine adores her father, Martin, but says she has watched the progression of his mixed dementia for long enough. Loraine shares the emotional experience of her dad not recognising her, the challenges of non-verbal communication and other difficulties that the later stages of dementia can bring. 16 November 2021 34 ‘As carers, we must be kind to ourselves. Caring for yourself helps you to care for others’ Real stories As a carer for her gran, Steph Greaves recognises that it's easy to burn out from the responsibility. Although proud to repay a lifetime of her gran's kindness, Steph believes it is important for carers to be kind to themselves as well. 12 November 2021 7 7 ways to support a person with dementia in cold weather Advice If you’re supporting somebody living with dementia, here are 7 ways to help make sure they’re kept safe and comfortable during the colder, winter months. 09 November 2021 16 Previous Next Sign up to get twice-monthly e-newsletter updates from Alzheimer’s Society. You can change what you receive at any time and we will never sell your details to third parties. 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