Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is a common challenge for families dealing with Alzheimer's disease in moderate to late stages?

1. Patient's emotional stability

2. Patient's ability to live independently

3. Lack of empathy from the patient

4. Difficulty in providing personal care

The correct answer is: Lack of empathy from the patient

The correct answer highlights a significant challenge that families often face when caring for individuals with moderate to late-stage Alzheimer's disease, which is the patient's diminished emotional response and understanding. As the disease progresses, individuals often experience changes in their emotional and behavioral responses, including lack of empathy or diminished ability to connect emotionally with loved ones. This can lead to feelings of frustration and sadness for family members, as they may find it difficult to engage with the patient in meaningful ways. This diminished empathy can complicate caregiving because the patient may not recognize the emotional needs of their family members or may react inappropriately to emotional cues. Families often struggle with the loss of the previous relationship dynamics where emotional bonds were strong and mutual. In the context of the other options, while they certainly present challenges (like the patient's emotional stability and ability to live independently), diminished emotional engagement is a unique factor in the later stages of Alzheimer's, leading to profound relational strains. Providing personal care is also a challenge, but it is often more logistical than emotional, thus making the lack of empathy an especially impactful issue during these later stages.