Question

What are interventions typically performed during the last stages of Alzheimer's disease, particularly during the dying process?

Answer 1

Alzheimer's interventions in the last stages focus on palliative care, often in a hospice setting, to ensure comfort and manage symptoms with medication and behavioral therapies.

Step-by-step explanation:

Interventions during the last stages of Alzheimer's disease are often centered around palliative care to ensure comfort in the dying process. Such care may include managing physical symptoms with medication, addressing emotional and spiritual needs, and offering support for the patient's family. Since Alzheimer's disease can impair cholinergic neurons, leading to decreased acetylcholine neurotransmission and severe cognitive impairment, treatments often involve drugs such as cholinesterase inhibitors to boost acetylcholine levels. Additionally, interventions may utilize behavioral therapies, including psychotherapy, sensory therapy, and cognitive exercises to manage symptoms. However, ultimately, in the terminal phase, the focus shifts to palliative measures—ensuring the dignity and comfort of the patient, often in a hospice care setting.