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. 2003 Oct 1;4(4):312-330.
doi: 10.1901/jaba.2003.4-312.

End-of Life Issues in the Context of Alzheimer's Disease

Rebecca S Allen, Jung Kwak, Kristine L Lokken, William E Haley

End-of Life Issues in the Context of Alzheimer's Disease

Rebecca S Allen et al. Alzheimers Care Q. .

Abstract

This article presents an overview of end-of-life care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their family caregivers. We define end-stage AD, and review neuropsychological and behavioral characteristics along with concomitant issues in therapeutic assessment. We then review the literature regarding programs and treatments for end-stage AD, the need for advance care planning and family participation in medical decision-making, familial caregiving stress, and issues associated with palliative care and bereavement outcomes. Methodological issues in the extant research literature are addressed, including issues of treatment implementation, validity, and clinical significance. Translational research and demonstration projects are encouraged.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The Four stages of dementia. Reprinted from reference . Used by permission.
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