Most Dementia Patients 'Return' Before Death And It's Unclear Why

[Judi Lynn]

07 May 2024
By YEN LIM & DINY THOMSON, THE CONVERSATION

Dementia is often described as "the long goodbye". Although the person is still alive, dementia slowly and irreversibly chips away at their memories and the qualities that make someone "them".

Dementia eventually takes away the person's ability to communicate, eat and drink on their own, understand where they are, and recognise family members.

Since as early as the 19th century, stories from loved ones, caregivers and health-care workers have described some people with dementia suddenly becoming lucid. They have described the person engaging in meaningful conversation, sharing memories that were assumed to have been lost, making jokes, and even requesting meals.

It is estimated 43 percent of people who experience this brief lucidity die within 24 hours, and 84 percent within a week.

More:
https://www.sciencealert.com/most-dementia-patients-return-before-death-and-its-unclear-why