Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that gets progressively worse. It usually begins with short-term memory loss which may not appear to be a significant problem.
Since even those without Alzheimer’s or any type of dementia have memory slipups, it usually isn’t until the condition gets worse that this mental health problem is diagnosed. As the brain and nervous system worsen due to to Alzheimer’s, the iperson’s ability to function independently is threatened.Studying people previously diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, mental health experts have identified 7 distinct stages of the disease. Alzheimer’s is treatable but not curable. It can eventually become so devastating that the patient cannot care for themselves. Alzheimer’s doesn’t kill you, but the complications of decimated brain function can lead to death, with Alzheimer’s as a contributing factor.
The 7 Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Dr. Barry Reisberg of New York University is credited with developing the most widely accepted system for breaking the overall Alzheimer’s condition into these 7 different phases:
Stage 1 – No Noticeable Impairment
Stage 2 – Minimal Decline
Stage 3 – Mild DeclineThe Alzheimer’s victim, family members and friends begin to notice problems with memory and other cognitive issues. This is usually the earliest stage where medical professionals can diagnose Alzheimer’s.
Stage 4 – Moderate DeclineAlzheimer’s symptoms are clear-cut and identifiable. Problems with simple arithmetic and an inability to recall details about the person’s past are often present. The person may forget what they ate for lunch. Handling finances can be difficult.
Stage 5 – Moderately Severe DeclineThis is the first stage where someone may express a need for help with what were previously easy to perform daily tasks and activities. In the fifth stage, an Alzheimer’s sufferer can experience high levels of confusion, and often times can’t remember simple personal details like phone numbers and addresses.
Stage 6 – Severe DeclineConstant supervision is required at this stage. Professional care is often necessary. At Stage 6, an individual is usually unable to perform his or her own bathing and toileting needs. They may develop severe personality changes, and may not be able to recognize friends and family members.
Stage 7 – Very Severe DeclineThe final stage of Alzheimer’s disease is the most debilitating. Alzheimer’s removes a person’s ability to respond to his or her environment, and to communicate in most ways. Total care is needed. While the person may be able to speak specific words or phrases, what’s said may have nothing to do with the situation or surroundings. This is the terminal phase of the disease.It’s important to note that some health professionals recognize 3 general stages of Alzheimer’s disease progression, early-stage, middle-stage and late-stage. The early-stage is when mild symptoms are experienced. As the disease progresses it leads to moderate problems in ithe middle-stage. Eventually severe issues ensue as late-stage Alzheimer’s takes over.If you know someone who is exhibiting any of the classic signs of Alzheimer’s, or some other form of dementia, get a health care professional involved as soon as possible. Memory loss and diminished communication skills are not “normal” signs of aging. There may be something much more serious at work — Alzheimer’s or some other dementia-related condition, in which case early diagnosis is vitally important to minimize the impact on the patient and their loved ones. And if it’s not Alzheimer’s, it may be a curable condition. The sooner treatment begins, the better the prognosis.
