There is no timetable for this disease, only vague outlines of what can happen. Ultimately, one of two things will sadly happen. The first is that, on it’s own, a physical problem will develop that moves the patient towards the end. This can include heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, cancer and so many other issues that can happen separate from the brain. The second option is that the brain damage from ALZ becomes so extensive that it effects the body’s ability to maintain the basic functions of living - swallowing, breathing, the heart beating, etc. For some, the journey is fast and others move more slowly. Early onset patients seem to move faster on average, and for late onset, the average seems to be around 8-10 years after diagnosis. The longest I’ve seen on this site is 18 years. There is a saying that “if you met someone with Alzheimer’s, you’ve met one person with Alzheimer’s” because everyone’s journey is unique unto themselves and a singular mix of symptoms and behaviors. Nobody is “typical” but we all share so many of the same struggles. I hope this helps!❤️

Your comment was right on. I was a co caregiver for my father in law who lived with us and had AZ. He lived to be 84. My wife was diagnosed with AZ 8 years ago but had symptoms earlier. She is now 79 and still going strong. Even though she inherited that gene from her dad(3rd Generation AZ) her journey is completely different from her dad. His COPD was the main cause of his death. Just enjoy one day at a time. Live to your fullest

My husband was diagnosed about 20 yrs ago. He is very healthy physically. Mentally he is dependent on me, with help from hospice for everything except for feeding him.

Often, people die of another disease, but this is a "one way street"...So many ways our bodies degenerate! I have diabetes, Parkinsons and dx of Early Stage Alzeimers! My heart, liver and kidneys are good. My neurologist ordered PT to strength and stretch muscles, counteracting the fatigue and weakness I'm feeling...I'm not going down without a fight!

Thank you all. My 76 year old wife of 54 years has been diagnosed twice with alz, most recently in February with mild/moderate alz. She's had 2 episodes with UTI over the last year, the first being very brutal including the lack of any cognitive or physical abilities, but she has recovered 'nicely'. Her short memory keeps getting shorter and common sense is becoming more difficult for her. She does dishes, laundry and cares for herself, but I need to keep close tabs on her.