Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory and cognitive function. The disease is fatal in the final stages. There are seven clinical phases of the disease, progressing from normal, everyday function to the final late stages. Alzheimer's is typically diagnosed in senior adults in their 70s, however early-stage Alzheimer's can occur in the mid-40s and 50s.
Stage One
No signs of memory impairment are visible. A medical professional will not find any cognitive memory problems after an examination.
Stage Two
Slight memory loss that may seem to be common forgetfulness to an individual occurs. Signs are so subtle they are not apparent to family members or medical professionals. A health professional will not be able to recognize signs of memory impairment after exam. An MRI, or brain scan, is the only way to detect very early stages.
Stage 3
Mild cognitive decline is occurring. Some people may be diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Family and friends may be able to recognize memory problems. A person will forget names and commonly placed words. Work performance is affected. Memory loss is evident in social settings. A medical interview may show positive signs of memory loss.
Stage Four
Moderate cognitive decline occurs. Decreased knowledge of events that happened recently. Person may not be able to count backward from 100 in sets of 7. Complex organizational tasks are unable to be completed. Tasks include making a grocery list, balancing a checkbook or planning a dinner party.
Stage Five
Mid-stage Alzheimer's disease is present. A person requires some assistance with activities of daily living including reminder of where the bathroom is or that a shower needs to be taken. When interviewed by a doctor, a person will not be able to recall past history such as the name of a college attended and vague facts. Person will need assistance with picking out matching and appropriate clothing for the weather and certain occasions. Able to eat and toilet independently. Remembers name and most information about self and family members.
Stage Six
Severe cognitive decline occurs; personality may change as person is aware disease process is expanding. Person can become frustrated at mental abilities or may feel embarrassed. Additional help with bathing and toileting are required. Reminders to use toilet as well as assistance with toileting are necessary. May forget the name of a spouse, but will recognize their face. Needs reminders on how to properly dress. Person may have hallucinations or accuse others of lying. May start to wander and has a high chance of getting lost.
Stage Seven
Final stage of Alzheimer's disease. The person is unable to respond to environment. Unable to feed themselves and eventually become totally incontinent of bowel and bladder. Unable to walk safely and eventually will not be able to control movement and become bed bound. Muscles begin to grow rigid. Person will longer be able to smile. Unable to swallow food or liquids. Each stage of the disease, including time frame, is different from person to person. Some victims decline rapidly, while others may stay at a certain stage of the disease for several years.
