Dementia With Lewy Bodies (cont.)

Outlook

Like other types of degenerative dementia such as Alzheimer's disease, DLB is gradually progressive.

• DLB eventually affects a person's job performance. Many people with DLB take early retirement from their jobs.
  
  
• The person with DLB will eventually lose his or her ability to drive safely. Driving privileges should be addressed by the caregivers and care team.
  
  
• Eventually the person will lose the ability to care for himself or herself.
  
  
• DLB shortens life expectancy.

The rate of progression varies considerably, but most people die within 5-7 years after their disease is diagnosed. The cause of death is usually a complication of the disease.

• People with the disease develop severe dementia and eventually may have only limited ability to move.
  
  
• They are at risk of falls because of poor balance and walking difficulties.
  
  
• Many have difficulties swallowing, which leads to poor nutrition and sometimes pneumonia (because food goes into the lungs instead of the stomach).
  
  
• They eventually become immobile, which can lead to skin problems, pneumonia, and other complications.