Hi @IBTC welcome to the Dementia Support Forum. Different types of dementia can progress at different rates but yes, I know what you mean about a new stage of decline being surprising. My mum has Alzheimer's and although changes used to be quite gradual she is now late stage and it feels like a bit of a roller coaster at times. This is a great place for receiving support and advice though, and it's a safe place to share your thoughts and feelings as people here understand.