Final answer:
Family members of individuals with late-stage Alzheimer's disease face challenges in providing care due to the patient's dependency and loss of basic bodily functions. Caregiver stress and its physical manifestations are also of significant concern, and proactive planning for long-term care and healthcare directives is often necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the primary concerns for family members of those with Alzheimer's disease during the late stage of the condition is the significant decline in the patient's ability to perform basic daily functions. In severe Alzheimer's disease, individuals often cannot recognize family members or communicate effectively, becoming fully dependent on others for their care. They may lose control over basic bodily functions, such as bladder and bowel control, and have difficulty swallowing.
Additionally, the emotional and psychological strain on caregivers is notable, as they may witness a decline in their loved one's cognitive abilities and personality. The progression of Alzheimer's disease can lead to increased memory, language, and cognitive deficits, presenting challenges in managing the care and well-being of the affected individual.
Moreover, this stress can manifest physically, as demonstrated in research indicating that caregivers under chronic stress, such as those caring for a spouse with Alzheimer's disease, show a poorer antibody response to vaccinations compared to controls.
As the disease advances and cognitive impairment becomes more severe, family members often have to make difficult decisions regarding long-term care and may need to manage healthcare directives such as living wills and medical powers of attorney in advance, providing as much autonomy and quality of life as possible for their loved one.