Dementia is a progressive illness for which there is currently no cure. Each person stricken with dementia will experience the disease differently, meaning it is impossible to predict precisely how an individual’s dementia will progress. It is also impossible to predict how long a person will survive when in the throes of end-stage dementia. Commonalities In End-Stage Dementia The term “dementia” actually refers to a category of diseases, each causing memory loss and deterior

For years before her death at age 96, Nancy Lundebjerg’s mother underwent a long, slow decline. Arthritis made it hard for Margaret Lundebjerg to get around. After two hip surgeries, she needed a walker when she was out and about. Incontinence was a source of discomfort, as was the need to rely on aides to help her perform daily chores. Little by little, Margaret became frail and isolated. “There was a sadness to seeing my mother’s circle of life become diminished,” said Nanc