The 3 Stages of Dementia and Alzheimer's

Some seven million Americans are currently receiving Alzheimer’s care, and that figure will nearly double by 2050. However, not all of those people have the same experience. Though there are many overlapping symptoms among all cases of dementia, it’s also an individual experience, and understanding when and how Alzheimer’s disease will change over time is difficult. Having an understanding of the stages of dementia can help to identify how far the condition has progressed.

In this post, we’ll outline the three Alzheimer’s stages, outlining what the stages involve and the symptoms.

Early-Stage Alzheimer’s 

Early-stage Alzheimer’s presents mild symptoms. At this stage, the individual is able to live independently, will likely still be able to drive and do everyday tasks, and will broadly continue to live as they’ve always done. However, it’s likely that they’ll show increasing signs of forgetfulness, which goes beyond the usual memory lapses associated with older age. 

Alzheimer’s care is usually required at this stage since the person is still able to do all the things they’ve always been doing for themselves. However, that doesn’t mean that action shouldn’t be taken — it’s important to get a diagnosis from a doctor.

Symptoms of Early-Stage Alzheimer’s include:

• Forgetting names
• Acting confused when making plans
• Having difficulty doing routine tasks
• Forgetting information 

Middle-Stage Alzheimer’s

A person with Middle-Stage Alzheimer’s will experience the symptoms associated with Early-Stage Alzheimer’s, only with more frequency and severity. The person will likely still be able to live a somewhat independent life, but they’ll require assistance. This stage of Alzheimer’s disease is the longest of the three and usually lasts for a few years. 

As well as all of the symptoms of Early-Stage Alzheimer’s, the individual may act in erratic ways, become confused about where they are or what time it is, and find it difficult to form full sentences.

Symptoms of Middle-Stage Alzheimer’s include:

• Moodiness or becoming withdrawn
• Forgetting important events
• Dressing in clothes not appropriate for the weather/season
• Wandering off/getting lost
• Personality changes
• Anger

It’s usually at this stage that more pronounced caregiving is required, especially as the condition progresses. 

Late-Stage Alzheimer’s

Late-Stage Alzheimer’s, the final stage, is marked by severe disruption to the individual’s life. At this stage, full-time is necessary, usually provided by a professional, though in some cases it can also be provided at home. It’s usually impossible for people with Late-stage Alzheimer’s to have conversations or engage with the wider world. There’s also significant physical impairment, such as trouble sitting, walking, and swallowing. 

Symptoms of Late-Stage Alzheimer’s include:

• Severe communication challenges
• Difficulty swallowing, walking, and moving.
• Severe behavior changes. 

Get Support For a Loved One With Alzheimer’s Disease

It’s not easy to watch someone you love battle with Alzheimer’s disease, but remember that help is available. Comforting Home Care by Phoebe provides a host of in-home Alzheimer’s care support services that provide a much needed break for caregivers while also ensuring your loved one receives the best care possible. Contact us to learn more about our in-home Alzheimer's and dementia care services, or to arrange a free in-home consultation.