Alzheimer’s and Dementia Stages
Preclinical
It begins long before you are aware of any symptoms. This stage of Alzheimer’s can last for years or decades.
Mild Cognitive Impairment
We may experience memory loss of things easily remembered. Also judging time to complete a task or appointments or decisions may become more difficult. But please remember that anyone with these challenges do not necessarily have Alzheimer’s.
Mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease
- Short term memory loss.
- Problem-solving
- Personality changes.
- Organizing or finding the right words
- Losing objects or getting loss
Moderate dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease
Confusion grows and needing help with daily chores or personal care become more apparent.
Poor judgment and confusion become more obvious. They may misuse words or be confused about members of your family and wandering. If this is an issue necessary steps to monitor them should be taken.
Greater memory loss may be more apparent. Forgetting people, personal experiences or where they live. If this happens keep them in a safe area and have a monitoring devise on them with their name, address and emergency phone numbers in case they wander off.
Daily Activity like getting dressed, bathing, grooming or any personal care will be needed.
Significant personality changes and behavior become more serious. Some may be convinced that relatives or caregivers are stealing from them. They may become more agitated with outbursts of anger. This is probably the time when you have already done your homework and are ready to put them into a more safe environment like a care facility with monitors and locks outside entry ways.
And again, call your physician for any changes you see and discuss adjustments in medication to control behavior or slow down the disease.