My mom has been diagnosed with Alzheimers-she has been living with us for over 6 years now.I am the primary caregiver and get very few breaks.I have heard stories of people with this disease- that they turn into vegetables and even stop eating and even quit breathing-what are the end stages of this awful disease?
Alz is a very cruel disease that has different courses in different people. In the end stage, people generally lose their ability to recognize others and to speak. Sometimes they can repeat phrases back to you, but it is not anything meaningful. Still, despite all the damage, you can often see pain, confusion, and hints of the old personality inside. I am glad that you are there for your mother.
Sometimes I wonder if their mind comes back to them when they leave their body. Wouldn't it be wonderful if they could look back and see their loved ones one more time before leaving?