Expert: Paula Damgaard - 9/24/2007

Question
My father has been experiencing mid-stage alzheimers for about 2 years. He does not recognize his wife or children in photos, and usually not even in person. He is unable to toilet himself, speaks jibberish, slowly wanders, doesn't remember things that happened 5 minutes ago, and otherwise exhibits classic symptoms of midstage Alzheimers.
My question is, how many years can this go on? I believe that he will only be able to live another 3-4 years. Another relative says, you never know, he could live another 8 or 9 years. For them to say this is just confusing and frustrating to me. He is 87 years old and in fairly fragile physical health in addition to the AD. I'm just trying to be realistic and have practical discussions, and feel as thought their "8 or 9 years" comment is distracting in the least, and even obstinate. What is realistic, common, and average? I'm sure that there are extreme cases of some one in this stage only living another month, and some one else living many years. But wouldn't you say that in the vast majority of cases, a person who's been strongly in midstage for 2 years would not live more than another 4 years?

Answer
Dear Chris, I would think  you are more realistic than your relatives.  However, you are right in that some people do live a lot longer.  There is no set "rule".  However, being in fragile physical health could be his ticket out.  Usually AD patients are pretty healthy which is why they live so long.  

I am wondering if someone has his medical power of attorney?  Is there someone who knows what he wanted in the way of a living will?  That person could be the one that helps to determine how long he survives.  If he is taken to the doctor for every illness, that will give him quantity of life, not necessarily quality.  So ask lots of questions when someone suggests you do a "necessary test" like CT scans or lots of blood work, etc. determine how it will really make his life better.  Remind them that he has dementia and that you want him to have the best quality of life.  

I hope that helps.  Paula