Alzheimer's disease is a long and painful process. As a caregiver, you want to know what is coming next so you can plan and prepare. Unlike some illnesses, it doesn't always follow a smooth and predictable path.

The National Alzheimer's Association has created a seven stage description of the disease to help people understand it, although it's important to remember that not everyone will move in a linear fashion. Most patients will have a mix of symptoms from different stages, although as time moves on the later stages will begin to dominate. Your loved one may be considered to have third stage Alzheimer's disease, but have some days with no symptoms at all and others with much more advances signs. In the laters stages, a stage six patient may occasionally display signs of stages five or seven.

Stage 1: No impairment (normal function)

Stage 2: Very mild cognitive decline (may be normal age-related changes)

Stage 3: Mild cognitive decline

This stage of Alzheimer's disease is often debated. The symptoms are usually quite noticeable to family members and close friends, but doctors and the various tests they rely on may not pick up on them. Doctors and others may dismiss these signs as normal, which is quite frustrating to those involved.

Many patients with stage 3 Alzheimer's disease have difficulties recalling words and names. Many of us have this problem all of the time, but when it shows up as a new trait it may be important. Fumbling for names of old friends can be embarrassing. Often a missing word is replaced with something similar. "Airplane" may be called "a car that flies" or "books" might be called "things you read."

Some people have regular problems with work performance. Those who have a long history of good reviews, but suddenly begin experiencing problems, may have stage 3 Alzheimer's disease. Small mistakes, forgotten assignments, and other concerns can be important signals.

Lost objects are often a sign of Alzheimer's disease as well. Like many other symptoms, a lot of people always misplace things. I am constantly looking for my keys, eyeglasses, and pen. Others, however, have always been organized and rarely lost things. When they start forgetting where they parked and losing their glasses once or twice a week, that can be meaningful, but is often overlooked.

When you are seeing signs that you feel may indicate Alzheimer's disease, talk to your loved one's doctor. There are a variety of checklists and tests that they look at to diagnose. You may not get a certain answer, but you can discuss what to watch out for and ways to deal with the symptoms you're having.

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)


To read more articles on Alzheimer's and other senior care related issues please visit www.OurCareCommunity.com - a free eldecare resource where members can find the latest information on senior care issues, share their ideas and experiences, 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.


If you would like to read more articles on Alzheimer's Disease, 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 at Lanier
Technical College and has over 10 years experience in elder care. Having
been a family member arranging eldercare as well as a professional providing it, she understands the needs and concerns of all involved.


For more information please visit: alzheimers care and dementia care homes

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