The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease and What To Expect

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to think, reason, and communicate. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all cases. There are three primary Alzheimer’s symptoms stages: early, middle, and late. Keep reading to learn more about the different stages and what to expect.

The Early Stage

There is no definitive early stage of Alzheimer’s. The disease can progress slowly or rapidly, and each person experiences it differently. However, there are some common symptoms that may occur in the early stages. One common symptom is memory loss. People with Alzheimer’s may have difficulty remembering recent events or conversations. They may also forget the names of people they know or places they have been. Another common symptom changes in mood or behavior. People with Alzheimer’s may become irritable, restless, or depressed. They may also become less social and withdraw from activities they used to enjoy.

One of the most challenging aspects of the early stages of Alzheimer’s is that the symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from normal signs of aging. This can make it difficult for people to get the diagnosis and treatment they need. If you think a loved one may have Alzheimer’s, it’s important to see a doctor for a diagnosis. There is no one test for Alzheimer’s, but the doctor will likely perform a series of tests to help determine if the person has the disease.

The Middle Stage

The middle stage of Alzheimer’s disease is typically when the most noticeable symptoms begin to occur. This is a time when many individuals begin to require more assistance with their activities of daily living and may need to move into a nursing home or assisted living facility. In the middle stage of Alzheimer’s, individuals may experience difficulty with the following:

• Remembering recent events
• Remembering the names of people they know
• Remembering how to complete routine tasks
• Interpreting what they see
• Expressing themselves clearly
• Judging distances and spatial relationships

During this stage, people may also become more irritable, agitated, or depressed. They may also have changes in their sleep patterns and eating habits. It’s important to remember that everyone experiences Alzheimer’s disease differently. So, while some of the symptoms listed above may be commonly experienced in the middle stage, others may not be. If you are concerned that a loved one may be experiencing the middle stage of Alzheimer’s, it is important to consult with a doctor.

The Late Stage

In the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, the person with the disease may become increasingly confused, agitated, and uncooperative. They may also experience hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. In addition, a person with Alzheimer’s disease may have difficulty walking, speaking, and swallowing. They may also lose the ability to control their bladder and bowels. It is important to remember that every person with Alzheimer’s disease progresses at their pace. Not everyone will experience all of the symptoms listed above.

If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease in the late stage, it is important to be patient and understanding. You will likely need to help the person with many aspects of their daily life, such as dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom. You may also need to help the person eat, as they may have difficulty preparing food or swallowing properly. It is important to make sure the person with Alzheimer’s disease is eating a healthy diet and getting enough fluids. If the person with Alzheimer’s disease is in pain, be sure to discuss pain relief with their doctor. There are many options available, including over-the-counter and prescription medications. In addition, it is important to provide plenty of stimulation and social interaction for the person with Alzheimer’s disease. This can help keep them mentally and emotionally healthy.

Overall, understanding the stages of Alzheimer’s disease is very important because it helps people know what to expect as they or a loved one progresses through the different stages. This guide is a valuable resource for both caregivers and people with Alzheimer’s disease.