4. The Influence of Co-existing Health Conditions on Life Expectancy
Co-existing health conditions can significantly impact life expectancy in late-stage dementia. Individuals living with chronic diseases such as heart conditions, respiratory problems, or diabetes, along with dementia, might face a reduced life expectancy.
Heart conditions, especially, can complicate the management of dementia. Reduced heart function can limit the supply of oxygen-rich blood to various organs, including the brain, thereby possibly accelerating the progression of dementia.
Respiratory issues, too, can complicate matters. Difficulty with swallowing, a common issue in late-stage dementia, can increase the risk of aspiration, leading to pneumonia – a leading cause of death in people with dementia.
Metabolic conditions like diabetes can also impact life expectancy in dementia. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time, affecting the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the brain and possibly accelerating dementia progression.
Chronic kidney disease is another condition that can affect life expectancy. Impaired kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can further exacerbate the symptoms of dementia.
The presence of these co-existing conditions often necessitates a multifaceted approach to care, aiming to manage dementia symptoms while also addressing these other health challenges. (4)
