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- Becoming moody or withdrawn, in socially or mentally challenging situations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
