What is the leading cause of death in patients with dementia?

The leading cause of death in patients with dementia is pneumonia, particularly aspiration pneumonia. This condition arises because individuals with dementia often experience difficulty swallowing, leading to an increased risk of food or liquids going down into the lungs rather than the stomach. This aspiration can cause infection and inflammation in the respiratory system, which can rapidly progress to pneumonia, a significant complication in these patients.

Additionally, dementia impacts the patient's ability to recognize and respond to symptoms of illness, leading to delays in seeking medical care and treatment. This vulnerability, combined with the person’s declining physical health and weakened immune system, enhances the risk of developing severe pneumonia. As patients with dementia advance in their condition, the risk of aspiration increases due to compromised motor function and altered mental status. Hence, pneumonia is a critical concern and a common cause of mortality in this population.