Stage 4: The Tipping Point
The fourth and final stage of PSP is the most severe and challenging. It often requires full-time assistance or care, and the focus is primarily on comfort and quality of life.
The cognitive changes continue to escalate in the final stage, significantly impacting the individual’s ability to communicate effectively or engage in complex tasks. They might also exhibit apathy, lack of interest, or emotional changes.
At this stage, the individual might be unable to stand or walk and may require a wheelchair for mobility. They are likely to need help with all activities of daily living, and there is a high risk of injury from falls.
The difficulties with speech and swallowing become extremely pronounced, and alternative methods of communication and feeding might be necessary. There is a significant risk of choking and aspiration pneumonia at this stage.
The eye movement difficulties reach their peak during the final stage, significantly limiting the person’s ability to interact with their environment. Caregivers might need to adjust the living space to accommodate these vision changes and prevent accidents. (4)
