Even to an experienced caregiver, an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis is a frightening thing. It promises a long journey through the unknown, and you know that it won't end happily. It helps to have a road map to guide you. What is coming next? What twists and turns should you watch out for?

Understanding the seven stages of Alzheimer's disease can help you to have an idea of what might be coming. It can allow you to plan ahead for care needs and hopefully prepare you for some of the surprises that catch many off guard.

It's important to remember that the stages are not guaranteed to proceed smoothly. Your loved one may usually exhibit stage three behaviors, but have a particularly bad day where symptoms from stages four or five seem to dominate, and occasionally even seem to improve to an earlier stage.

Also keep in mind that a sudden extreme change may signal something other than worsening Alzheimer's disease. It is common for dementia symptoms to get worse whent here is an unrelated physical problem, such as a urinary tract infection. Any sudden change in mental state should be taken seriously.

Stage 1 - No Impairment - The first stage of Alzheimer's disease is never diagnosed. Changes in the brain begin long before symptoms develop. As research and improved technology enable doctors to diagnose it earlier, it may become possible to detect and treat it much sooner.

Stage 2 - Very Mild Cognitive Decline - At this stage, the symptoms are so mild that they are often overlooked. The minor changes, such as spells of forgetfulness or irritability, are usually dismissed as normal signs of aging. It's normal to forget where you put your keys or what time that appointment was. When nearly everyone you know has the same problems, you tend to ignore the possibility of Alzheimer's disease.

You might have some suspicion, but not be willing to face admit the truth. It's important to tlak honesly and openly to your doctor about these symptoms. At this stage, an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis is rare. Most doctors will suggest trying to keep your mind stimulated, by taking a class or playing word games, and reevaluate in a few months or even years.

Stage 3: Mild cognitive decline

Stage 4: Moderate cognitive decline (Mild or early-stage)

Stage 5: Moderately severe cognitive decline (Moderate or mid-stage)

Stage 6: Severe cognitive decline (Moderately severe or mid-stage)

Stage 7: Very severe cognitive decline (Severe or late-stage)

The first two stages of Alzheimer's disease are often undetectable, but they can also be the key to slowing its progress. Staying healthy and keeping the mind stimulated can help to slow the disease process, and these lifestyle changes should begin long before symptoms begin to show.

Like many other health concerns, Alzheimer's disease is a frightening diagnosis. Thankfully, there are many resourcs available to help sufferers and their families to understand the disease and its symptoms. As more is learned about the condition, earlier diagnosis and treatment may be able to minimize the impact that it has on people.

If you are interested in reading more articles on Alzheimer's and other senior care related topics please visit www.OurCareCommunity.com - a free resource built on the ideas of virtual community and social networking. Members can share their ideas and experiences, find the latest information on senior care issues, and connect with other members to get answers and advice.


Contributing Editor: Julie Sanocki, CNA
Julie is a graduate of the Certified Nursing Assistant program and has over 10 years experience in elder care. Having been a family member arranging elder care as well as a professional providing it, she understands the needs and concerns of all involved.
For more information please visit: Alzheimer's care and dementia care

To add a comment please login by clicking here