My dad is pretty much bed ridden, can't make ANY decisions at all for himself, is really chatty (but lost in space), has no sense of THIS reality (lives in his own past/world). His health is "stable" but his mind is gone. He required 24/7 care (he is in an adult family home). I feel sorta lost. I was told he might die tomorrow or live another 1 or 2 years. He is on comfort care only. Not sure WHAT is next.
dementia is considered fatal anyway because various systems depend on the brain for instructions. my mothers digestive system just limps along for instance.
good luck!
What I find amazing is that she has survived, close to the same stage, (wheelchair bound, cannot do anything for herself, except eat) for 3 years. She has outlived several roommates, who started out in much better condition that she was in. They were communicating well, doing things for themselves, no problem with mobility and then they went downhill and passed away within a matter of months. It's so odd how things happen.
I have read that Vascular Dementia average life span is 4 years. We are almost there, but, her physical health seems good. She can't walk, but, propels herself around with her feet in the wheelchair. She seems to have lots of energy, though, she is unfocused.