Introduction
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder that affects the brain cells. It is characterized by a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills, as well as a decline in other abilities. As Alzheimer's progresses, individuals can experience changes in behavior, communication, and physical functioning. Understanding the different stages of Alzheimer's can help individuals and their families understand the disease, plan for the future, and seek appropriate treatments and support.
Stage 1: No Impairment
At this stage, there is no cognitive impairment and individuals may not show any signs or symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. During this stage, individuals may experience normal age-related memory changes, but they should still be able to remember recent events and conversations.
Stage 2: Very Mild Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals may begin to experience very mild cognitive decline, such as forgetting recent conversations or events, difficulty with complex tasks, and an overall decline in mental sharpness.
Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals may experience more noticeable cognitive decline, such as difficulty with planning and solving problems, difficulty with word recall, and difficulty with navigation.
Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals may experience more significant cognitive decline, such as difficulty with language, difficulty with orientation, and difficulty with recognition of familiar people and objects.
Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals may experience significant cognitive decline, such as difficulty with basic communication, difficulty with basic activities of daily living (such as bathing or dressing), and difficulty with recognizing familiar people and places.
Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals may experience profound cognitive decline, such as difficulty with recognizing family members and difficulty with basic communication.
Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals may experience severe cognitive decline, such as difficulty with recognizing their own home and difficulty with basic verbal communication. They may also experience physical decline, such as difficulty with ambulation.