How fast does Lewy body dementia progress?

Lewy body dementia (LBD) is a progressive condition that typically involves a faster decline in cognitive (thinking) skills than Alzheimer’s disease. It may also have a less favorable outlook, but outlook and progression vary from person to person.

In a 2022 longitudinal study, people with LBD experienced an average annual decline of 2.1 points on the mini-mental state evaluation (MMSE), which measures biological markers of cognition.

Another 2021 study suggests that healthcare professionals may be able to use the MMSE to measure progression in people with LBD over a shorter period of 6 months.

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIH)Trusted Source, the average time between LDB diagnosis and death is 5 to 7 years. However, some people may live up to 20 years after diagnosis.

This typical unfavorable outlook may beTrusted Source due to delays in diagnosis and treatment as well as complications of the condition, such as falls, medication side effects, and heart issues.

There are no clearly defined stages for LBD, but people may expectTrusted Source the following general symptoms as the condition progresses:

• Early stages: The early stage may occur before a diagnosis. Symptoms may be mild, and people may not experience disruptions to their daily functioning.
• During progression: Individuals may experience declines in areas such as thinking and memory. They typically start to need more assistance as symptoms progress.
• Later stages: Those with LBD in the later stages may be entirely dependent on others.

Changing or new symptoms may indicate that LBD is progressing. CommonTrusted Source symptoms to look out for include:

• memory difficulties
• mood changes
• confusion
• movement symptoms, including:
  • stooped posture and shuffling gait
  • balance issues
  • difficulty swallowing
  • loss of coordination
• sleep disorders
• depression and anxiety
• paranoia and delusions

Most peopleTrusted Source with LBD experience dementia symptoms, such as hallucinations and lower responsiveness, before motor symptoms.

However, symptoms and progression of LBD vary from person to person. Some people may experience the above symptoms earlier in the course of their condition, while others may not experience some symptoms at all.

There is currently no cure for LBD. However, treatment can help slow the condition’s progression, sometimes by as much as several years.

If caregivers or people with LBD notice a change in the person’s symptoms, it may be beneficial to speak with a doctor. A healthcare professional can adjust the person’s treatment plan and help them manage the new symptoms.