How long do people live after a dementia diagnosis?
The life expectancy after a dementia diagnosis varies greatly depending on the type of dementia, the individual’s overall health, and other factors such as age and how well they manage their condition.
On average, individuals live 4 to 10 years after being diagnosed with dementia, though some may live longer, especially in the case of mild forms of dementia.
For example:– Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, often leads to a gradual decline over several years. People with Alzheimer’s typically live around 8 to 10 years after diagnosis, but this can vary.
Vascular dementia, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, may progress at a different rate depending on the severity of the underlying vascular problems.
– Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia may have different progressions and life expectancies, with people often living around 5 to 7 years after diagnosis.
The speed of decline and the presence of other health issues also play a crucial role in determining life expectancy.
Early diagnosis and a supportive environment can help individuals manage symptoms and maintain a better quality of life for a longer period.