Understanding the 7 Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Comprehensive Guide
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and irreversible cognitive disorder that affects the brain, deteriorating it over time. It is one of the most common causes of dementia, and it starts with mild symptoms that gradually worsen. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it’s important to understand its different stages to prepare for the future. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the seven stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Stage 1: No Impairment
During this stage, an individual shows no signs of impairment, and a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is not yet possible. However, researchers have established that brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease may occur during this stage.
Stage 2: Very Mild Cognitive Decline
This stage is characterized by slight memory loss that doesn’t interfere with daily life activities, and it may go unnoticed. For instance, one may forget where they left their keys or mistakenly forget someone’s name. During this stage, family members and friends may not recognize any significant changes.
Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline
In this stage, a person’s cognitive decline becomes more noticeable, and close associates may realize that there’s a problem. For instance, the person may forget familiar names of individuals, have difficulty with planning and organizing, and struggle to remember recent events.
Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline
During this stage, symptoms become clearer and may affect daily life activities. The person may forget personal history details, such as their birth date, and may have difficulty performing mental arithmetic. In addition, they may find stranger tasks, such as job-related tasks, overwhelming and challenging.
Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline
In this stage, the person requires help with some daily activities such as dressing and bathing. The person may experience memory gaps and may not remember significant events in their lives. They may also feel disoriented and confused about their location.
Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline
At this stage, the person can no longer communicate coherently, making conversations challenging. They may experience incontinence and have difficulty controlling their bladder and bowel movements. Furthermore, they may require assistance in completing their daily tasks, such as eating, and they may become agitated.
Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline
This stage is the final stage of Alzheimer’s, and the person is entirely dependent on others for care. They may experience a significant loss of physical abilities, such as stiffness of the muscles, limited mobility, and inability to smile. Eventually, the person will become bedridden and lose the ability to control their movements.
In conclusion, Alzheimer’s disease progresses through seven stages. Understanding the different stages of Alzheimer’s disease can help family members and caregivers to provide appropriate care for their loved ones, assign responsibility properly, and prepare for what’s to come. It’s essential to note that the symptoms and progression may vary from person to person. Seek professional medical advice to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease and plan the appropriate course of action.
