The Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease – Dr. Reisberg

The Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s was developed by Barry Reisberg, M.D.. Reisberg is a clinical director of the New York University of Medicine’s Aging and Dementia Research Center.

These seven stages make up a general guide to show the progression of Alzheimer’s. Each person responds differently to the onset of the disease, therefore making it difficult to place a person within one specific stage. Also, the symptoms may overlap.

Stage 1

First, Alzheimer’s begins before there is any evident impairment or memory problems. Dementia symptoms are not seen at this stage.

Stage 2

Next, the patient may experience mild cognitive decline. This can appear as normal age-related changes in addition to early signs of the disease.

Stage 3

Those around the patient may soon especially begin to notice memory issues. These may include:

• Trouble scheduling plans
• Remembering correct words or names
• Misplacing objects

Stage 4

Moderate cognitive decline and symptoms in line with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis are easily seen at this stage. Some may notice the following:

• Lapse of recent events
• Trouble remembering one’s personal history
• Difficulty doing complex tasks
• Becoming moody or withdrawn, in socially or mentally challenging situations

Stage 5

Soon after, patients may exhibit obvious gaps in memory and thinking. In addition, they may require assistance with some day-to-day activities, including:

• Stating the days of the week
• Recalling basic personal information; addresses and phone numbers
• Choosing proper clothing for the current weather or season

Stage 6

This stage marks the beginning of severe cognitive decline. Patients at this point require a great deal of assistance with daily tasks. Patients may:

• Lose sight of recent experiences and their surroundings
• Tend to wander or become lost
• Trouble remembering personal information
• Not be able to match a name to a familiar face
• Require help in the bathroom
• Have issues with bladder and bowel control

Stage 7

And finally comes the person’s inability to respond to their surroundings or carry on a conversation. In some cases, control of movement and motor functions disappear.

For help caring for your loved one with Alzheimer’s, contact A Place at Home today.

Article Sources:

• Alzheimer’s Association – The Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s