The 7 Stages of Alzheimer's

*Credit: SHVETS production Via* *Pexels*

It can be challenging to accept that your loved one is living with Alzheimer's, but you can show your support by learning more about the condition and its progression. The stages aren't set in stone, and all symptoms may not show in a particular order. But, being aware of the stages can help you plan to care for your loved one.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia that occurs when nerve cells in the brain die. It is a progressive disease that affects an individual's cognitive abilities, beginning with mild memory loss and leading to significant changes in behaviour.

One of the best ways to help someone with Alzheimer's is by looking into private dementia care homes that know how to care for seniors that require memory care. Discussing your concerns with nurses at residences will give you a clear idea of what stage your family member might is in at the moment.

There is no specific line between stages of Alzheimer's to differentiate among them. However, you might be able to identify behavioural changes over time. Some stages may overlap due to similarity in symptoms, but a guideline will help you identify the issue and help your family member manage the disease. Here are the 7 stages of Alzheimer's to keep in mind.

Stage 1: No Impairment

Since Alzheimer's is a silent disease that creeps up on someone, it begins with no symptoms of impairment. Even if your loved one is in the early stages of Alzheimer's, there might be no symptoms. However, only a brain imaging test and professional diagnosis can reveal if the individual has Alzheimer's.

Stage 2: Basic Forgetfulness

We've all forgotten our keys, rushed to the car to realize that the keys are still on the table counter. It's also common to misplace certain items since our brains are constantly active and sometimes need a break. However, some of these forgetful behaviours could be an indicator of Alzheimer's in an ageing individual.

The subtle Alzheimer's symptoms don't vastly affect an individual at this stage, and they can still carry our daily tasks. Sometimes, the symptoms can be a normal part of ageing. However, in some cases, they might be signals of Alzheimer's disease. There is no way to know which one it is until a doctor catches it.

Stage 3: Noticeable Memory Impairment

At this stage, you will start noticing symptoms in your loved ones that don't seem like regular signs of ageing. At this mild decline point, the individual might repeatedly ask the same question, forget more than just one thing a day, and have difficulty remembering the names of people.

If you notice your loved one is in the early stages of Alzheimer's, the best way you can help them is by taking them to a professional for a diagnosis. If your doubt is confirmed and the doctor says they have Alzheimer's, you should start looking into Alzheimer care facilities for future reference. It might not feel right to send your family member off to a care home as soon as they get diagnosed. However, keeping your options open will make the process smoother when you are ready to help them move.

*Credit: Kampus Production Via* *Pexels*

Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline

During this period, the symptoms you noticed in stage three will become more prevalent. These symptoms include forgetting essential details about themselves, trouble remembering dates, inability to cook, struggles to use the phone, and confusion understanding what people are saying. In addition to forgetting a few things, they might begin to experience further cognitive decline.

At this time, it might be challenging for them to function alone. Help your family member with everyday chores, assist them with their finances by setting up auto-pay or directing the mail to your address, and ensure that they are not driving. They cannot be left alone at this stage since it can adversely affect their health.

Stage 5: Moderately Severe Symptoms

At this stage, your loved one may experience difficulty dressing appropriately or remembering details about themselves. However, they might still have some level of functionality, such as the ability to use the bathroom alone. But, their confusion towards many basic activities might be getting worse at this stage.

You can help your family member by creating a list to follow. The list could include their phone number, address, emergency contacts, and medication details. If there is no one at home to take care of them, you need to ensure that they have a guideline to follow at all times. However, the best step at this point is to ensure that they are not left alone for a long time.

Stage 6: Severe Decline

Your loved one might have difficulty taking care of basic hygiene necessities at this point, including brushing their teeth, showering, or dressing appropriately. They will require constant supervision at this stage.

If you are worried about your family member, it would be beneficial to look into dementia and Alzheimer's care to provide them with the care they need. At Sagecare, we aim to ensure that your loved ones feel comfortable in a home-like setting where they can age peacefully. We have high staffing to resident ratio to ensure that we can offer an immense level of personalized care to all our members.

Stage 7: Very Severe Decline

Stage seven is the final Alzheimer's stage, where seniors with Alzheimer's disease will require help from caregivers at every step of the way. They may need assistance with basic activities, such as eating, sitting, walking, and creating complete sentences.

Since this is towards the end stages of Alzheimer's, only professionals can provide the utmost care that your loved one may need. You can rest assured as our care process is designed specifically for seniors with dementia. Even if your family member lives in an elderly care residence, you could visit them every day and spend time with them for your mental peace.

What You Can Do to Help

You can help your loved ones regardless of the Alzheimer's stage. As soon as you notice any symptoms, keep an eye on them before the stages progress further. The earlier you notice the signs, the sooner you can help them in the process. Dealing with Alzheimer's can be very tough on people who live with it. However, you can assist them throughout all stages and make the journey simpler for them.