by Liletta Harlem

The average life expectancy for people with dementia has been increasing in recent years. This is due to a number of factors, including improved medical care, better management of chronic health conditions, and a greater focus on quality of life for people with dementia.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the average life expectancy for people with Alzheimer’s disease is 8 to 10 years after diagnosis. However, some people with Alzheimer’s live for much longer, sometimes for 15 or even 20 years.

There are a number of factors that can affect how long a person with dementia lives. These include the type of dementia, the age at diagnosis, and the person’s overall health. For example, people with vascular dementia typically have a shorter life expectancy than people with Alzheimer’s disease.

People who are diagnosed with dementia at a younger age also tend to have a shorter life expectancy. This is because they are more likely to develop other health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke, which can contribute to their death.

However, there are a number of things that people with dementia can do to improve their life expectancy. These include:

• Managing chronic health conditions. People with dementia are more likely to develop chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. These conditions can increase the risk of death, so it is important to manage them carefully.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all help to improve the health of people with dementia.
• Getting regular cognitive stimulation. Activities that challenge the mind, such as reading, playing games, and socializing, can help to keep the brain active and may delay the progression of dementia.
• Getting support from family and friends. Having a strong support network can help people with dementia to cope with the challenges of the disease and live longer, healthier lives.

The increasing life expectancy for people with dementia is good news. It means that more people will have the opportunity to live full and meaningful lives, even with the challenges of the disease. However, it is important to remember that dementia is a progressive condition, and eventually, all people with dementia will die. The goal is to help people with dementia live as long and as well as possible.

If you or someone you know has dementia, there are a number of resources available to help. You can talk to your doctor, a dementia care specialist, or a support group.

For more information on this topic, or to find resources available for caregivers of individuals with dementia contact, My Natural Me Organization