The Final Stages of Lewy Body Dementia: What Families Should Know
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

The Final Stages of Lewy Body Dementia: What Families Should Know

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a neurological disease that becomes worse over time and affects how people think, move, behave, and stay awake. Because its symptoms are similar to those of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, it is commonly misinterpreted and misdiagnosed. The latter stage of Lewy Body Dementia can be hard on families both emotionally and physically. However, with kind assistance and a clear idea of what to expect, it is possible to give comfort, dignity, and peace during this time. Read on to learn more.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Understanding the Final Stage

In the late stage of Lewy Body Dementia, cognitive decline becomes severe. Memory loss, confusion, and disorientation increase significantly. Individuals may no longer recognize loved ones, communicate clearly, or understand their surroundings. Delusions, hallucinations, and severe fluctuations in alertness — characteristic features of earlier stages — often persist but may become harder to distinguish from general unresponsiveness.

Motor function also declines. Movement becomes slow and rigid, and falls are common earlier on. In the final stage, mobility is greatly reduced, and many individuals become unable to walk or sit up independently. Swallowing becomes difficult, which increases the risk of choking, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia — a common cause of death in Lewy Body Dementia.

Common Symptoms in the Last Stage

While each person progresses differently, families may observe:

  • Severe cognitive impairment

  • Loss of ability to speak or only brief, incoherent words

  • Inability to eat independently or safely

  • Increased sleep, often up to 20+ hours per day

  • Loss of bowel and bladder control

  • High risk of infections and aspiration

  • Muscle rigidity and stiffness

  • Increased sensitivity to noise, touch, or stimulation

  • Episodes of agitation or anxiety followed by long periods of unresponsiveness

Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, people in late-stage LBD may still have brief moments of clarity. These lucid intervals can be emotionally powerful but can also create false hope if families don’t understand the disease’s nature.

Emotional and Behavioral Changes

Hallucinations and delusions may continue even when verbal communication is limited. Some individuals may seem frightened or agitated for reasons that aren’t clear. Gentle reassurance and a calm environment are essential.

Mood symptoms such as depression, fear, and aggression can appear, not because of personality change, but because the brain itself is losing the ability to process signals correctly. This is one of the reasons that LBD requires a care team who understands the disease — some medications commonly used in Alzheimer’s or psychiatric care can worsen symptoms or be dangerous in Lewy Body patients.

Care Needs in the Final Stage

Almost all individuals in the last stage of Lewy Body Dementia require full-time care, usually in a memory care community, skilled nursing environment, or with comprehensive in-home hospice support. Care focuses on:

  • Comfort and pain management

  • Safe feeding and swallowing adaptations

  • Preventing bedsores

  • Fall prevention

  • Emotional reassurance

  • Maintaining dignity and reducing distress

Because patients may no longer be able to communicate pain or discomfort, caregivers must rely on nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, breathing changes, or restlessness.

Support for Families

The final stage of Lewy Body Dementia can last from several weeks to several months. Families benefit from emotional support, respite care, and education about the dying process. Many turn to hospice services, which focus on comfort, spiritual care, and family preparation rather than prolonging life at all costs.

One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved one at this stage is presence: holding a hand, speaking softly, playing familiar music, or simply sitting nearby. Even when words are gone, love remains felt.

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

More Articles About Senior Living

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour
Dementia, The Final Stages of Lewy Body Dementia: What Families Should Know
, , , , , , , , ,
0
The Final Stages of Lewy Body Dementia: What Families Should Know
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

What Is Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is one of the most common forms of dementia, and can be confused for Alzheimer’s or schizophrenia. LBD either develops slowly over time or quickly in combination with other brain disorders, according to nia.nih.gov.

Typically, LBD will take a long time to develop noticeable changes in an individual. The lifespan associated with LBD diagnosis is 5-8 years, but recent studies show 2-20 years is another possible range.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

First Signs Of Lewy Body Dementia

LBD is typically defined by three stages: early, middle and late. The beginning of LBD may include some mild delusions or hallucinations. These individuals tend to act out dreams while sleeping. Early LBD stages have also been shown to lead to slight movement difficulties.

Memory will stay intact in the early stages, but that doesn’t mean moments of confusion can’t happen. Slight cognitive changes will start to pop up at this time, as well.

These are the 7 stages of Lewy Body Dementia:

Stage 1: Normal Behavior

Stage 1 of LBD will go unnoticed by both the individual and their family and friends. These individuals will show no signs of the disease, and LBD will simply have no impact on their life at this point.

Stage 1 Symptoms:

  • No symptoms.

Stage 2: Mild Changes

Just like stage 1, stage 2 will yield very little noticeable changes due to LBD. At this point, memory issues may easily be passed off as a normal part of aging.

Stage 2 Symptoms:

  • Minimal difficulty finding words.
  • Normal functioning inside and outside the home.
  • Ability to overcome memory issues.

Stage 3: Noticeable Changes

For most people suffering from LBD, this is the stage where changes in behavior are noticed. Loved ones will be able to see changes in the individual’s reasoning, thinking and actions. Memory issues will persist.

Stage 3 Symptoms:

  • Difficulty paying attention.
  • Forgetfulness at times.
  • Problems at the workplace.
  • Trouble recalling names/words.
  • Trouble with money management.

Stage 4: Mild Dementia

Despite the mild dementia, individuals entrenched in stage 4 are generally able to recall friends, family and past events.

Stage 4 Symptoms:

  • Driving miscues.
  • Forgetting names and items.
  • Forgetting past events at times.
  • Daily routine issues.
  • Increased trouble managing money.
  • Forgetting where important items were placed.

Stage 5: Moderate To Severe Decline

For the most part, individuals should still recognize loved ones, but they will have increased trouble recalling the past, at the same time. Individuals in stage 5 may need help performing daily routines and tasks.

Stage 5 Symptoms:

  • Mood swings.
  • Personality changes.
  • Gaps in memory.
  • Bladder issues.
  • Repeated thoughts and questions.
  • Requiring assistance while eating/using the bathroom.

Stage 6: Severe Mental Decline

Memories begin to fade quickly during stage 6 of LBD. It is recommended to hire someone for round-the-clock at-home care.

Stage 6 Symptoms:

  • Getting lost.
  • Unusual eating habits.
  • Lack of awareness.
  • Strong personality changes/mood swings.
  • Difficulty speaking.
  • Delusions.

Stage 7: Severe Dementia/Final Stage

During stage 7, the individual suffering from LBD will no longer be able to recognize friends and family. 24-hour care is essential during this final stage.

Stage 7 Symptoms:

  • No ability to eat, swallow and speak.
  • Assistance needed while using bathroom.
  • Constantly disoriented.
  • Loss of bladder and bowel control.
  • Bed ridden.

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

More Articles About Senior Living

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour
Dementia
, , , ,
0
Crafts For Seniors With Dementia
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Craft Ideas For Seniors

Anyone who has Alzheimer’s or is suffering from dementia needs mental stimulation and social engagement. There are five crafts that are perfect for seniors living under these conditions. If you are searching online for “crafts for seniors with dementia” or “easy crafts for seniors with dementia,” then this post is for you!

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

The best way to set up activities for those with dementia is to make sure the craft does not have a right or a wrong way to accomplish the task. These activities are meant to be fun and satisfying; helping to improve self-esteem and confidence. In fact, some crafts may be the preferred alternative to medications used to curb depression or behavioral issues. It’s also important to play it safe. Safety is key with these crafts and/or activities for seniors with dementia. Stay clear of choking hazards or potentially dangerous movements or stretches. Below is a list of five great crafts for your loved ones.

1. Flower Arrangements

Creating flower arrangements is a terrific activity, especially for those who previously enjoyed this task earlier in life. Anyone who liked creating flower arrangements or putting together flower gardens will appreciate this craft idea. Let the senior in your life hop back in time and create some flower arrangements. All you need for this activity is a plastic vase and preferably some artificial flowers.

2. Keep A Beat

This may sound like a meaningless and somewhat boring task, but it has been proven to be very beneficial for seniors with memory issues. The best way to keep a beat to a song is by using some sort of homemade shaker. What can you use to construct a homemade shaker, though? Our suggestion is to fill a plastic container with pasta or dry beans. Staying with a music rhythm for several minutes will help sharpen focus.

3. Make A Scrapbook

Scrapbooking can be a tremendously satisfying activity for all ages. For seniors, it may be ideal to equip them with a small notebook, magazine or newspaper clips and a glue stick. From there, let the creative minds take over. Leave the arrangement and/or goal of the scrapbook up to them. Perhaps bringing an already completed scrapbook for reference would be a good idea.

4. Play Dough

Just like scrapbooking, play dough can be fun for everyone, especially seniors. They can relax and form clay into any shapes and sizes they desired. Make sure you have cookie cutters and a plethora of play dough handy. Adding in a few drops of essential oils can give the play dough a pleasant scent.

5. Sorting Through Coins

This is one last great activity. Sorting coins can be a very fun and productive task, at the same time. This could remind them of earlier in life when they had to manage finances or create a budget.

Read more about great crafts for seniors with dementia here.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

Dementia, Senior Living
0
The Final Stages of Lewy Body Dementia: What Families Should Know
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Dealing With Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is one of the most common forms of dementia, and can be confused for Alzheimer’s or schizophrenia. LBD either develops slowly over time or quickly in combination with other brain disorders, according to nia.nih.gov.

Typically, LBD will take a long time to develop noticeable changes in an individual. The lifespan associated with LBD diagnosis is 5-8 years, but recent studies show 2-20 years is another possible range.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

First Signs Of Lewy Body Dementia

LBD is typically defined by three stages: early, middle and late. The beginning of LBD may include some mild delusions or hallucinations. These individuals tend to act out dreams while sleeping. Early LBD stages have also been shown to lead to slight movement difficulties.

Memory will stay intact in the early stages, but that doesn’t mean moments of confusion can’t happen. Slight cognitive changes will start to pop up at this time, as well.

These are the 7 stages of Lewy Body Dementia:

Stage 1: Normal Behavior

Stage 1 of LBD will go unnoticed by both the individual and their family and friends. These individuals will show no signs of the disease, and LBD will simply have no impact on their life at this point.

Stage 1 Symptoms:

  • No symptoms.

Stage 2: Mild Changes

Just like stage 1, stage 2 will yield very little noticeable changes due to LBD. At this point, memory issues may easily be passed off as a normal part of aging.

Stage 2 Symptoms:

  • Minimal difficulty finding words.
  • Normal functioning inside and outside the home.
  • Ability to overcome memory issues.

Stage 3: Noticeable Changes

For most people suffering from LBD, this is the stage where changes in behavior are noticed. Loved ones will be able to see changes in the individual’s reasoning, thinking and actions. Memory issues will persist.

Stage 3 Symptoms:

  • Difficulty paying attention.
  • Forgetfulness at times.
  • Problems at the workplace.
  • Trouble recalling names/words.
  • Trouble with money management.

Stage 4: Mild Dementia

Despite the mild dementia, individuals entrenched in stage 4 are generally able to recall friends, family and past events.

Stage 4 Symptoms:

  • Driving miscues.
  • Forgetting names and items.
  • Forgetting past events at times.
  • Daily routine issues.
  • Increased trouble managing money.
  • Forgetting where important items were placed.

Stage 5: Moderate To Severe Decline

For the most part, individuals should still recognize loved ones, but they will have increased trouble recalling the past, at the same time. Individuals in stage 5 may need help performing daily routines and tasks.

Stage 5 Symptoms:

  • Mood swings.
  • Personality changes.
  • Gaps in memory.
  • Bladder issues.
  • Repeated thoughts and questions.
  • Requiring assistance while eating/using the bathroom.

Stage 6: Severe Mental Decline

Memories begin to fade quickly during stage 6 of LBD. It is recommended to hire someone for round-the-clock at-home care.

Stage 6 Symptoms:

  • Getting lost.
  • Unusual eating habits.
  • Lack of awareness.
  • Strong personality changes/mood swings.
  • Difficulty speaking.
  • Delusions.

Stage 7: Severe Dementia/Final Stage

During stage 7, the individual suffering from LBD will no longer be able to recognize friends and family. 24-hour care is essential during this final stage.

Stage 7 Symptoms:

  • No ability to eat, swallow and speak.
  • Assistance needed while using bathroom.
  • Constantly disoriented.
  • Loss of bladder and bowel control.
  • Bed ridden.

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

More Articles About Senior Living

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour
Dementia
, , , ,
0
The Final Stages of Lewy Body Dementia: What Families Should Know
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is one of the most common forms of dementia, and can be confused for Alzheimer’s or schizophrenia. LBD either develops slowly over time or quickly in combination with other brain disorders, according to nia.nih.gov.

Typically, LBD will take a long time to develop noticeable changes in an individual. The lifespan associated with LBD diagnosis is 5-8 years, but recent studies show 2-20 years is another possible range.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

First Signs Of Lewy Body Dementia

LBD is typically defined by three stages: early, middle and late. The beginning of LBD may include some mild delusions or hallucinations. These individuals tend to act out dreams while sleeping. Early LBD stages have also been shown to lead to slight movement difficulties.

Memory will stay intact in the early stages, but that doesn’t mean moments of confusion can’t happen. Slight cognitive changes will start to pop up at this time, as well.

These are the 7 stages of Lewy Body Dementia:

Stage 1: Normal Behavior

Stage 1 of LBD will go unnoticed by both the individual and their family and friends. These individuals will show no signs of the disease, and LBD will simply have no impact on their life at this point.

Stage 1 Symptoms:

  • No symptoms.

Stage 2: Mild Changes

Just like stage 1, stage 2 will yield very little noticeable changes due to LBD. At this point, memory issues may easily be passed off as a normal part of aging.

Stage 2 Symptoms:

  • Minimal difficulty finding words.
  • Normal functioning inside and outside the home.
  • Ability to overcome memory issues.

Stage 3: Noticeable Changes

For most people suffering from LBD, this is the stage where changes in behavior are noticed. Loved ones will be able to see changes in the individual’s reasoning, thinking and actions. Memory issues will persist.

Stage 3 Symptoms:

  • Difficulty paying attention.
  • Forgetfulness at times.
  • Problems at the workplace.
  • Trouble recalling names/words.
  • Trouble with money management.

Stage 4: Mild Dementia

Despite the mild dementia, individuals entrenched in stage 4 are generally able to recall friends, family and past events.

Stage 4 Symptoms:

  • Driving miscues.
  • Forgetting names and items.
  • Forgetting past events at times.
  • Daily routine issues.
  • Increased trouble managing money.
  • Forgetting where important items were placed.

Stage 5: Moderate To Severe Decline

For the most part, individuals should still recognize loved ones, but they will have increased trouble recalling the past, at the same time. Individuals in stage 5 may need help performing daily routines and tasks.

Stage 5 Symptoms:

  • Mood swings.
  • Personality changes.
  • Gaps in memory.
  • Bladder issues.
  • Repeated thoughts and questions.
  • Requiring assistance while eating/using the bathroom.

Stage 6: Severe Mental Decline

Memories begin to fade quickly during stage 6 of LBD. It is recommended to hire someone for round-the-clock at-home care.

Stage 6 Symptoms:

  • Getting lost.
  • Unusual eating habits.
  • Lack of awareness.
  • Strong personality changes/mood swings.
  • Difficulty speaking.
  • Delusions.

Stage 7: Severe Dementia/Final Stage

During stage 7, the individual suffering from LBD will no longer be able to recognize friends and family. 24-hour care is essential during this final stage.

Stage 7 Symptoms:

  • No ability to eat, swallow and speak.
  • Assistance needed while using bathroom.
  • Constantly disoriented.
  • Loss of bladder and bowel control.
  • Bed ridden.

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

More Articles About Senior Living

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour
Dementia
, , , ,
8
Crafts For Seniors With Dementia
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

5 Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

Anyone who has Alzheimer’s or is suffering from dementia needs mental stimulation and social engagement. There are five crafts that are perfect for seniors living under these conditions. If you are searching online for “crafts for seniors with dementia” or “easy crafts for seniors with dementia,” then this post is for you!

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

The best way to set up activities for those with dementia is to make sure the craft does not have a right or a wrong way to accomplish the task. These activities are meant to be fun and satisfying; helping to improve self-esteem and confidence. In fact, some crafts may be the preferred alternative to medications used to curb depression or behavioral issues. It’s also important to play it safe. Safety is key with these crafts and/or activities for seniors with dementia. Stay clear of choking hazards or potentially dangerous movements or stretches. Below is a list of five great crafts for your loved ones.

1. Flower Arrangements

Creating flower arrangements is a terrific activity, especially for those who previously enjoyed this task earlier in life. Anyone who liked creating flower arrangements or putting together flower gardens will appreciate this craft idea. Let the senior in your life hop back in time and create some flower arrangements. All you need for this activity is a plastic vase and preferably some artificial flowers.

2. Keep A Beat

This may sound like a meaningless and somewhat boring task, but it has been proven to be very beneficial for seniors with memory issues. The best way to keep a beat to a song is by using some sort of homemade shaker. What can you use to construct a homemade shaker, though? Our suggestion is to fill a plastic container with pasta or dry beans. Staying with a music rhythm for several minutes will help sharpen focus.

3. Make A Scrapbook

Scrapbooking can be a tremendously satisfying activity for all ages. For seniors, it may be ideal to equip them with a small notebook, magazine or newspaper clips and a glue stick. From there, let the creative minds take over. Leave the arrangement and/or goal of the scrapbook up to them. Perhaps bringing an already completed scrapbook for reference would be a good idea.

4. Play Dough

Just like scrapbooking, play dough can be fun for everyone, especially seniors. They can relax and form clay into any shapes and sizes they desired. Make sure you have cookie cutters and a plethora of play dough handy. Adding in a few drops of essential oils can give the play dough a pleasant scent.

5. Sorting Through Coins

This is one last great activity. Sorting coins can be a very fun and productive task, at the same time. This could remind them of earlier in life when they had to manage finances or create a budget.

Read more about great crafts for seniors with dementia here.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

Dementia, Senior Living
1
How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia

A dementia diagnosis is heartbreaking for both the parent and their family. It’s a challenging time for both parties, as they plan for care in the present and future. But, what step comes first in this process? Here is how to talk to a parent with dementia.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Communicating With Dementia

If you have yet to place your parent(s) with dementia into a loving assisted living or memory care facility, now is the time to make that a priority. Don’t take control of the task yourself, though. There needs to be communication between loved ones and the parent about future living arrangements. Ask about your parent’s preferences. Has he/she had any facilities recommended recently? Provide input to go along with your parent’s wishes, but do not present them in a pushy manner.

Avoid any communications surrounding some sort of a power struggle, either with yourself and the parent or remainder of the family. You’ll want to keep these discussions civil yet serious at the same time. Screaming or raising voices of any kind can make this a hostile situation. It could also damage relationships in both the short and long term.

Avoiding Distractions

Avoiding distractions is one of the most important things to be mindful of during discussions. Take advantage of any and all moments that you have your parent’s full attention. Talks needs to remain focused. Perhaps setting a specific time and place to talk about future plans is the best course of action. That way, all parties can prepare talking points to work towards a positive solution.

Straightforward Approach

Dementia is a serious diagnosis, and needs to be treated as such. Often with these talks, less is more. Stick to the basics and lay out options for future living arrangements. Another key here is asking simple and direct questions. Keep the questions short, as well. Giving your parent too much to think about all at once is not recommended.

How NOT To Talk About Dementia

Use the approaches discussed early and make sure to avoid going off-script with these discussions. Quizzing a parent is always a bad idea. Badgering a loved one about remembering or forgetting something can seem confrontational. Keep your temper in check, even if the conversation does not go as expected. Anger will generally only be met with more hostility. Talking down to a parent with dementia is another bad idea during these conversations. This communication needs to be light but focused the entire time.

Independent, Assisted Living And Memory Care

Luckily for residents of Arizona, there are many facilities that offer all three services. Canyon Winds Retirement Community is one such place that features independent, assisted living and memory care services. Most dementia patients should opt toward either the assisted living or memory care options. If the case of dementia is advanced, memory care offers 24/7 staff, which is the best case scenario for patients with more needs than most assisted living residents.

480-780-1037
Schedule a Tour

Canyon Winds Retirement Offers Assisted Living in Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds Retirement is an assisted living facility in Mesa, Arizona. To schedule a tour of our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 480-780-1037.

Dementia
0