Alzheimer’s disease has been seen to progress gradually in three stages: early or mild, middle or moderate, and late or severe. It is also one of the most common causes of dementia.
Alzheimer’s is a neurological condition that affects different people in different ways, making each patient exhibit symptoms of dementia differently in various stages. Since stages may overlap, it may be hard to categorise a particular patient as a particular stage.
Overview of Alzheimer’s Progression
While the pace at which the disease progresses varies from person to person, one aspect is common. This common aspect is that the signs and symptoms of the disease worsen with time.
👉Did you know? Once diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a person typically survives for 4-8 years. However, some may even live for two decades, depending on other factors.
Symptoms of the condition may appear years after its onset. This initial period is known as preclinical Alzheimer’s disease.
In this blog, we are going to have a look at how the disease progresses through its stages and what symptoms are generally associated with each stage.
Stage 1: Early or Mild Alzheimer’s
A person in this stage may lead an independent life – work, drive, and participate in social activities. However, they may realise that they are facing memory lapses. For example, they may struggle to recall familiar words or forget where they placed objects of daily use.
Signs may not be clear in this stage. Yet family members and close friends may observe the lapses. Also, a neurologist may identify the symptoms with the help of specific diagnostics.
Common Problems & Signs in the Early Stage:
- Inability to use the right name or word
- Difficulty recalling names of new people
- Hardship attempting tasks in work and social environments
- Instantly forgetting what they read
- Misplacing or losing expensive things
- Planning and organising may start feeling tough
- Hard to manage money
*Note: At this stage, you can live well by focusing on your health and things that matter most. It is the time to plan your legal and monetary aspects, since you still possess decision-making abilities.
Stage 2: Middle-stage or Moderate Alzheimer’s
It is the longest phase that can continue for several years. As the condition advances, the patient will need increasing care.
Symptoms often become more obvious. There may be confusion with words, anger and frustration, and strange behavioural changes, like reluctance to take a bath. As nerve cells get more damaged, the patient may find it hard to function independently or even express their thoughts.
Common Problems & Signs in the Middle Stage:
- Forgetting occasions
- Inability to recall personal information and history (e.g., address, school attended)
- Tendency to withdraw from social gatherings
- Moodiness and avoiding mentally challenging situations
- Missing realisation regarding their whereabouts or what day it is
- Difficulty choosing season-specific clothing
- Difficulty with bladder control as the disease progresses
- Modifications in sleep patterns, like falling asleep during the day and restlessness at night
- Exhibit a rising tendency to roam and get lost
- Changes in behaviour and personality (e.g., delusions, doubting, compulsive repetitive actions like wringing hands)
*Note: Symptoms may be different in different people. In the middle stage, patients need help with routine activities.
Stage 2: Late-stage or Severe Alzheimer’s
Signs of dementia become very clear. The patient no longer has the ability to respond, talk to someone, or control movement. While they may still speak some words or phrases, they are unable to communicate pain. With deteriorating memory and cognitive abilities, there may be huge changes in personality. This makes extensive care necessary for the patient.
Common Problems & Signs in the Late Stage:
- Increased delusions and hallucinations
- Loss of weight (may be severe in some cases)
- Need 24X7 help with personal care
- Become unaware of surroundings and recent occurrences
- Decline in ability to walk, sit, and even eat food
- Inability to communicate
- Susceptible to infections, particularly pneumonia
*Note: While the patient typically loses most abilities, they may still feel better with the right interaction, soothing music, and reassuring touch. As it becomes hard for the family to constantly care for the patient, they may choose to seek help from external support systems or hire attendants.
When to See a Neurologist
If you are concerned about your memory lapses or think you may have dementia, it is good to visit a trusted healthcare expert.
Additionally, if you observe symptoms of memory issues in a family member or somebody you know, urge them to make an appointment and, if possible, accompany them to the doctor’s.
Dementia is not the only cause of memory issues. Other reasons include stress, depression, certain medicines, or other health problems.
A general physician can conduct some cognitive and neuroimaging tests to try to detect the cause. If they suspect Alzheimer’s, they can refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation.
Conclusion
A neurological condition like Alzheimer’s can be seriously overwhelming for the patient as well as their family. Beginning with seemingly minor memory lapses, it progresses to bring about severe cognitive decline to make an individual physically dependent even for day-to-day activities.
Once a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it is essential for the family to seek the right care. Sohana Hospital, Mohali, is a super specialty hospital with expert neurologists, advanced diagnostic tools, and the latest Alzheimer’s treatment facilities.
Our compassionate neuro specialists suggest the most appropriate treatment according to the patient’s age, overall health, medical history, symptoms, and preferences. Specialised medications can slow down the progression of the disorder in some people. These may prove effective and enable the patient to live better for a few months to a few years.
We follow a comprehensive treatment approach to treat the associated depression or anxiety, and sleep disorders as well. You can also get advice regarding the best therapies and support groups you can join to facilitate the best possible care for your loved one.
FAQs – Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
1. What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease?
Forgetfulness (names, events, conversations, words), misplacing things, asking questions repetitively, and trouble planning, making decisions, or solving problems – can be some early signs. Many people also notice changes in mood or personality.
2. How fast do the stages of Alzheimer’s disease progress?
Alzheimer’s usually progresses slowly over several years, but the speed can vary from person to person. Some people may go through a rapid cognitive decline, while others may take many years. It largely depends on a particular individual’s age, health, and treatment.
3. Can Alzheimer’s disease be treated or cured?
As of now, there is no proven cure, but the right treatment approaches can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. At Sohana Hospital, expert neurologists use medicines, brain exercises, and supportive care to help slow down the progression. Early diagnosis can help a patient better plan their life ahead (legally, financially, etc.) and get appropriate treatment.