End of life care

People with dementia often experience a gradual and long term decline in their condition. This can make it very difficult to determine when they are approaching the end of their life. 

They may die of dementia, from an unrelated condition such as cancer , a heart attack or deterioration arising from a relatively minor illness. 

It is important to let their GP, care home staff and hospital staff know if they have prepared an advance decision to refuse any type of treatment.  

They may have addressed end of life care in an advance statement. This will help everyone involved give the proper treatment and care to your loved one. 

If you are caring for the person at home then speak to your GP about local services available. These will  support you to continue to care for them as their condition deteriorates. 

If the person with dementia didn't make any advance statements then the healthcare professionals in charge of their case can speak with you.  They can then know they are giving them the very best treatment possible.

If they live in a care home then ask their GP or the care home staff what support would be available to allow them to die at home. They may prefer  familiar surroundings rather than go into hospital. 

This is a very tough time for you as their carer and of course the person with dementia.  But it is important that you make sure everyone looking after them has their best interests at heart.