- Physical signs. If your loved one has physical symptoms such as dry or pale gums, sores in the mouth, pale or flushed skin, vomiting, or swelling of any body part, there's a good chance that illness and/or an infection are present and causing discomfort.
- Behavioral signs. People with late-stage Alzheimer's might show sudden changes in behavior when they're in pain, such as agitation, combativeness, or insomnia.
- Nonverbal communication. Even though your relative may not be able to communicate effectively through words, he may still indicate pain through facial expressions (such as grimaces), gestures (such as pointing to a body part), or vocal sounds (such as groaning).
Be sure to take your loved one to a physician or another qualified healthcare professional if you notice any of these signs. Prompt treatment will reduce the duration and intensity of your relative's pain or discomfort.
Sources:
Alzheimer's Association (2005). Late-stage care: Providing care and comfort during the late stage of Alzheimer's disease. Chicago, IL: Author.
National Institutes of Health (2008). End of life: Helping with comfort and care (NIH Publication No. 08-6036). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
