Alzheimer`s Disease/Last stage alzheimers

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Expert: - 1/11/2007


Question
Is it common for last stage patients to suffer from spells of stopping breathing.

Answer
Hello Hallie,

Thank you for writing me.

Although apnea (the medical term for intermittent breaths) is not uncommon in any end stage ...that is, the final days before death, of a person's illness; it would not be appropriate to say it was common just as a symptom of late stage Alzheimer's.

I would suggest pursuing other causes such as swallowing difficulties, anxiety, etc. with the primary physican if indeed your loved one is still generally alert and is eating solid or unthickened foods.

Best Regards,
Michalene Peticca  M.A.

Alzheimer`s Disease

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Volunteer

Michalene Peticca

Expertise

I'd be happy to help with any questions about Alzheimer's or Dementia diseases. I can also help with Medicare, Long term care & other insurance questions.

Experience

I have my Masters degree in Geriatrics and am credentialed through the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Pennstate Milton Hershey hospital and the American Geriatrics Society. I've been in healthcare for over 20 years and worked directly with Alzheimer's and Dementia individuals for most of that time. I am also a licensed insurance agent in PA and MD. Currently i train healthcare professionals to care for Alzheimer and Dementia individuals and i have been a care manager for guardianship services in PA

Organizations
American Geriatrics Society

Education/Credentials
Masters degree in Geriatrics Licensed insurance agent in PA & MD.

Past/Present Clients
PHI Homes in Pennsylvania York, Dauphin & Adams County Area on Aging The Jewish Home of Harrisburg

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