The person may be susceptible to the following:
Infections – a person with dementia is at greater risk of infection, including UTIs (see below), chest infections and bed sores. Infections can be risky for a person in the later stages of dementia, and medical help should be sought immediately.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – this is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract including the kidneys and bladder. It can be common in people who don’t drink enough water and there are other causes too. Some symptoms include pain or burning when peeing, needing to pee frequently and sudden confusion. The person will need to see their GP or ring 111 urgently if they have a very high or low temperature. UTIs can cause increased confusion and can escalate if not treated swiftly.
Flu and Pneumonia – symptoms can include chills, fever, aches and pains, vomiting, coughing and breathing problems. Seek medical help if you suspect the person has flu or pneumonia.
Dehydration – symptoms can include a dry mouth, dizziness, and hallucinations. Not drinking enough water can lead to a urinary tract infection, which can be serious if it has time to develop. Encourage the person to drink fluids regularly, as they may not remember or realise they’re thirsty. Give the person juices, smoothies, or hydrating foods (such as watermelon, strawberries, peaches, and cucumber).
Constipation – a lack of movement or exercise, along with not eating enough fibre, can cause this. Encourage your loved one to exercise and eat high-fibre foods, such as a high-fibre cereal for breakfast, such as Weetabix or porridge, granary bread, beans and pulses, and plenty of vegetables.
Depression and low mood – depression can be common in a person with dementia due to their diagnosis, and a feeling of being unable to do the things they used to enjoy. Encourage the person to be active, take regular walks in nature and put on their favourite music. Make sure their social life is active and they have lots of friends and family around them. Try to do things together that you both enjoy. Speak to their GP if you are concerned.
Dental problems – your loved one may refuse to see the dentist, or they may not realise they have a dental issue. Encourage the person to have regular dental checks. The person may forget to clean their teeth regularly, so you may need to prompt them. Over time, they may forget how to do it. You may need to clean their teeth for them – explain what you are doing first and be gentle. If the person uses dentures, they need to be cleaned twice a day. Look for signs that your loved one may have dental pain, such as clenching their jaw, grimacing or not eating or drinking as much as they used to.
Blood clots – the person can be at risk when their when mobility decreases and they are sitting down more often. It’s worth encouraging the person to move around regularly, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time. Even simple stretches can help to prevent blood clots, along with elevating the legs.
Incontinence – this may occur in the later stages of your loved one’s dementia for various reasons. They may be unaware of the need to use the loo or realise when it’s too late. They may not make it to the toilet in time or may struggle to undo zips or buttons. You could put a toilet sign on the bathroom door if you feel your loved one is confused about where the toilet is. Incontinence pants or products may be helpful. Encourage the person to wear trousers that are easy to unzip or pull down.
Sources:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/digestive-health/how-to-get-more-fibre-into-your-diet/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/
https://www.dementiauk.org/information-and-support/health-advice/mouth-care/