Suggest Treatment For Stage 6 Alzheimer's Disease

Posted on Thu, 9 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 9 Apr 2015 Answered on

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My father is 83 years old and has just entered stage 6 of Alzheimers. He was diagnosed in January 2015 by a neurologist and has been taking 10 mg. of donepenzil daily. He shows no signs of improvement. In fact, I believe he has worsened. I believe he has probably had Alzheimer's symptoms for at least 4 years. He stopped driving 2 years ago because he got lost and also couldn't remember how to start the car. He has been in stage 5 for about 2 years and is now showing the symptoms of stage 6. My question is, what is his estimated life expectancy. he seems to be worsening quickly and I would like to plan for appropriate care. Also, he scored a 25/30 on the mental state test in April of 2014 and in December he scored a 17.
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (52 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
The average life expectancy is less than 2 years

Detailed Answer:
Hi Sir.

I understand your query and concern.

The average life expectancy in a person aged 83 years with stage 6 AD with a score of 17 on MMSE would possibly suggest value below 15%.

Overall the life expectancy is less than 2 years.

Post your further queries if any.

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Suresh Heijebu (16 minutes later)

What does value below 15% mean?

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It indicates the probability of survival.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Sir.

Value below 15% implies that only 15 patients with AD out of 100 with stage 6 would go onto live beyond 2 years.

Thank you.

Note: Get a consultation booked to know more about aging related medical issues. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar