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Dementia Stages
Last updated: April 4, 2013
What does it mean when we talk about dementia stages? Simply
put, dividing the course of dementia into stages gives medical
professionals and caregivers alike a yardstick by which we can
measure the progress of a person's cognitive health or decline, and
from there, determine a course of treatment appropriate to their
condition.
Often, the course of
Alzheimer's disease is categorized according to mild, moderate,
or severe Alzheimer's, but many clinical providers further
subdivide dementia into a seven-stage scale called the Reisberg
Scale, named for New York University physician and noted expert on
aging, Dr. Barry Reisberg.
Stage 1: No Cognitive Impairment
Though it may seem odd, the lowest dementia stage on the scale
is normal mental functioning, or no cognitive impairment. There are
no signs or symptoms of dementia, memory loss, behavioral problems
or other changes associated with the onset of
dementia.
Stage 2: Very Mild Cognitive Decline
Where the heck did I put my keys? What was that person's name?
According to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research, at least
half of the over-65 population reports some minor age-related
forgetfulness. Caregivers or medical providers may not even notice
such mild impairment, and it is not considered to be actual
dementia, though it is part of the scale of dementia stages and may
precede more noticeable cognitive decline.
Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline
When memory and cognitive problems become more regular, as well
as noticeable to caregivers and loved ones, a person is said to be
suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Since mild
cognitive decline can herald more severe stages of dementia in the
future, it is important to recognize the signs of this stage in
order to alleviate stress in the patient, as well as initiate a
medical course of action in the event that the dementia is
treatable. Though MCI does not generally have a major impact on
day-to-day functioning, some common signs include:
- Impaired work performance
- Memory loss and forgetfulness
- Verbal repetition
- Impaired organization and concentration
- Trouble with complex tasks and problem solving
- Difficulties with driving
Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline
At this point, a person has clearly visible signs of mental
impairment that point to early-stage dementia or Alzheimer's
disease. In addition to worsening of the symptoms discussed above,
caregivers should stay alert for signs of:
- social withdrawal
- emotional moodiness
- lack of responsiveness
- reduced intellectual acuity
- trouble with routine tasks
- denial of symptoms
Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline
Beginning at stage 5 and continuing into the later stages of
dementia, a person may no longer be able to carry out normal
day-to-day activities such as dressing or bathing without some
caregiver assistance. Also, stage 5 marks the onset of what many
professionals refer to as mid-stage dementia. Other symptoms that
manifest during this stage include:
- pronounced memory loss, including memory of personal details
and current events
- confusion and forgetfulness
- further reduced mental acuity and problem solving ability
Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline
Stage 6 is also known as middle dementia or moderately severe
Alzheimer's disease, depending on the diagnosis. This dementia
stage is characterized by a need for caregiver help to perform even
basic daily activities, such as dressing, eating, using the toilet
and other self-care. Further symptoms may include sleep
difficulties, incontinence, personality changes including paranoia
or delusions, anxiety, pronounced memory loss and inability to
recognize loved ones.
Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline
In severe Alzheimer's disease or late-stage dementia, a person
is essentially unable to care for themselves, and suffers from both
communication and motor impairment. They may lose the ability to
speak, walk or smile without help.
Whether your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer's disease or
another dementia-causing illness, familiarizing yourself with the
seven clinically recognized stages of dementia can help you arrange
for the care they need, when they need it.
Sources:
- WebMD.com, 2012
- Mayo Clinic, 2012
- Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation,
2011