The 7 stages of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and debilitating condition that slowly robs a person of their memories and personality. Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia that produces various symptoms that occur in stages, ultimately arriving at a point when a person can no longer live independently due to cognitive decline. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation says there are seven clinical stages of Alzheimer's. Stages 1 through 3 are the pre-dementia stages, while stages 4 through 7 are the dementia stages. Here is a close look at what these stages entail, according to the Global Deterioration Scale. Stage 1 There is no cognitive decline, nor noticeable symptoms. Stage 2 A person may experience very mild cognitive decline. This can include one feeling like he or she is having memory lapses, but no symptoms of dementia can be detected by others, including medical professionals. Stage 3 During stage 3, mild cognitive decline begins to become noticeable. Friends, family or coworkers begin to notice difficulties, which may include problems coming up with the right words or names; trouble remembering names; greater difficulty performing tasks; and losing or misplacing a valuable object. Stage 4 A careful medical interview should reveal symptoms of moderate cognitive decline. Forgetfulness of recent events; difficulty performing complex tasks like planning a meal for guests or paying bills; forgetfulness about one's own personal history; and becoming moody or withdrawn are possible. Stage 5 Cognitive decline continues to progress to where it becomes moderately severe. Gaps in memory are noticeable and individuals likely will need help with everyday activities. Some may be unable to recall their addresses or telephone numbers, while others may be confused about the day or where they are. Stage 5 is usually the stage when a person can no longer live without assistance. Stage 6 Very severe memory loss, loss of communication skills and inability to recognize loved ones occurs during the severe cognitive decline stage. One will need total care. Stage 7 This is the end-stage of the disease and is marked by profound cognitive impairment. Loss of mobility and effective communication typically occurs at this stage. It's important to note that these stages are general guidelines of what can be expected as Alzheimer's disease progresses. Symptoms may vary among different people, and not everyone with Alzheimer's will progress through these stages at the same rate.