Does Alzheimer’s dementia decrease person’s capacity to show empathy or sympathy?

Yes, Sunny is correct. I think its one of the first things to go, the capacity to feel empathy and appreciate. We had a shower put in for Mom. The man was a longtime friend. When he was all done he was so proud of his work but Mom just couldn't appreciate what he had done. Or, she didn't understand what he had done for her. I felt so bad for him. Her shower looks better than mine.

I'm no expert, but, from all that I have read and what I have seen with my own eyes, yes. The dementia usually does decrease the patient's ability to empathize or really see things from another's perspective. I think it's directly related to the brain damage. It's one of the most challenging things to do deal with imo. I think it causes family members, especially, caretakers frustration, because they just don't see how the person can be so insensitive or unappreciative. I think they don't understand that the person may not have the capacity. It's nothing personal.