Loss, Caregiving, & Comfort

As dementia progresses, the person you care for will need more hands-on caregiving as they lose the ability to take care of themselves. Many caregivers find this a rewarding yet difficult time. Without special equipment and training, it's easy to get overwhelmed with late stage caregiving as the need for help with everyday tasks (bathing, toileting, eating, transferring, etc.) intensifies. Don't go it alone – get help from friends, family, and community resources like the Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. Therapeutic activities, like listening to music, aromatherapy massage, and visits with pets can soothe and comfort both you and your loved one during this difficult time.


Throughout our virtual home, you'll find practical tips and strategies that have helped other caregivers in similar situations during the late stages. Below is a list we've put together - organized by key topics - so you can find information more quickly. We know it's not easy – we're caregivers too.

Show me how to:

Deal with incontinence

Give a less stressful bath

Give a bed bath

Prevent bed pressure sores

Transfer the person

Change bed pads

Use a hospital bed

Use a "high-low" hospital bed

Have better mealtimes

Get and/or use a ramp

Prevent falls