Stages of the Disease
Alzheimer’s disease gets worse over time. Experts have developed “stages” to describe how a person’s abilities change from normal function through advanced Alzheimer’s.
Stage 1
No Impairment –
Normal function, the person does not experience any memory problems. An interview with a medical professional does not show any evidence of symptoms.
Stage 2
Very mild decline
May be normal age-related changes or earliest signs of Alzheimer’s.
Memory lapses – forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects.
Stage 3
Mild cognitive decline
Early-stage Alzheimer’s may be diagnosed in some, but not all individuals at this point. During a detailed medical interview, doctors may be able to detect problems in memory or concentration.
Stage 4
Moderate cognitive decline
Mild or early-stage Alzheimer’s - at this point a careful medical interview should be able to detect clear-cut problems in several areas.
Stage 5
Moderately severe cognitive decline
Moderate or mid-stage Alzheimer’s - gaps in memory and thinking are noticeable and individuals begin to need help with day-to-day activities.
Stage 6
Severe cognitive decline
Moderately severe or mid-stage Alzheimer’s – memory continues to worsen, personality changes may take place and individuals need significant help with daily activities.
Stage 7
Very severe cognitive decline
Severe or late-stage Alzheimer’s - in the final stage of this disease, individuals lose the ability to respond to the environment, to carry on a conversation and eventually to control movement. They may still say words or phrases. At this stage, individuals need help with much of their daily personal care. They may also lose the ability to smile, to sit without support.