7 stages of Alzheimer’s disease : comprehension for better help

Belonging to the large family of neurocognitive disorders, Alzheimer’s disease is unfortunately prevalent among seniors. To better understand this condition, and better support elderly loved ones who suffer from it, let’s take a closer look at the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

Based on symptoms and the individual’s degree of autonomy, these different stages provide a clearer picture of the progression of dementia over time. A good understanding of these stages helps to adapt services and care in real time, ensuring the well-being and safety of seniors living with this disease.

Also known as the « Global Deterioration Scale », the Reisberg scale is used as a reference to classify the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in relation to the severity of cognitive symptoms, as well as the individual’s day-to-day limitations.

Even now, this system is still used by health professionals and caregivers to better understand the impact of the disease on the activities and autonomy of a person with Alzheimer’s disease at any given moment.

At this early stage, no particular problems are expected. However, if there is any doubt, for example if an elderly relative is experiencing occasional memory lapses, it is well advised to consult a healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis. Keep in mind that changes due to normal aging must be differentiated from actual Alzheimer’s disease.

The onset of early Alzheimer’s symptoms may begin at this stage. Although slight, cognitive deficits may develop. Most commonly, this is reflected by memory loss and difficulties in remembering small details of everyday life. If someone near you suffers from stage 2 Alzheimer’s, you should be aware that this person may, for example, forget the location of objects used in daily life, confuse names, or struggle to find the right words.

Still considered part of the « pre-dementia » phase, this stage usually coincides with the first perceptible signs of the disease. Difficulties with concentration, orientation, and the ability to perform more complex tasks are just some of the classic symptoms of Stage 3 Alzheimer’s disease. Indeed, neuropsychological tests performed by healthcare professionals become more easily measurable at this point of the disease. Thankfully, in most cases, independence in daily life is still maintained, allowing the person to carry on with most activities.

If an elderly relative in your circle is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s stage 3 (or more advanced), you should be aware that he or she may demonstrate signs of denial. In such situations, support from others can make a big difference. As a family caregiver, or someone who lives with a senior affected by this neurodegenerative disease, do not hesitate to take advantage of the various resources available to you, both for your own well-being and the one of the person you care about.

According to several experts, this stage represents the beginning of the dementia phase that is often associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Common symptoms may include :

Although the progression of the condition is variable from person to person, Stage 4 of Alzheimer’s disease tends to mark the onset of the first behavior-related symptoms. With the progression of physical and cognitive impairment, mood disturbances such as anxiety or depression may appear. To assist people experiencing these symptoms, strategies can be put in place to help manage these strong emotions.

At this intermediate stage of Alzheimer’s disease, several significant symptoms tend to emerge. As memory loss occurs more frequently, it also becomes more difficult to carry out simple everyday tasks. Typical examples include difficulty choosing personal clothing, counting / calculating, or even problems with spatial orientation.

Stage 5 Alzheimer’s disease is therefore considered as a point mark where the loss of autonomy becomes more apparent. To maintain maximum independence for seniors, and enable them to continue to enjoy home comfort, home care services then become particularly valuable.

The 6th stage of Alzheimer’s disease represents another turning point in the evolution of this neurodegenerative disorder, as it is defined by a significant cognitive deficit and a level of dementia that is often judged to be severe. In addition to intensified memory loss, particularly of recent events, personality and behavioral disorders may appear in some people suffering from the disease.

Alzheimer’s stage 6 therefore requires constant presence and supervision. For their own safety and well-being, your elderly relatives should generally not be left alone.

To support seniors themselves, as well as their relatives and family caregivers, professional home care services can represent an extremely precious aid.

Representing the most advanced phase of Alzheimer’s disease, stage 7 involves severe cognitive impairment and major limitations in most aspects of daily life. In addition to the significant memory impairment that is characteristic of Alzheimer’s, physical symptoms may also intensify:

The duration of Alzheimer’s stage 7 varies from person to person and can be influenced by a number of factors. However, the person affected by this stage of the disease requires ongoing care and support to maintain the best possible quality of life in the given circumstances.

Among the various symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, aggressive behavior is often one of the most worrying concerns for the person’s close relatives. Although this aggressive phase may not affect everyone, and certainly not in the same way in every situation, it remains an aspect of the disease that can be difficult to know how to deal with.

If an elderly relative suffering from Alzheimer’s disease shows signs of verbal aggression or agitation, here are some guidelines to consider :

Troubled by the symptoms of aggression shown by your close relative suffering from Alzheimer’s ? Looking for help ? The Alzheimer Society of Canada‘s mission is to guide you towards the right support resources available in your area. When confronted with such a situation, please do not hesitate to take advantage of the different forms of assistance that are available to you !

Remember that you are not alone. And that choosing to be surrounded by care providers reflects the importance you place not only on the well-being of your elderly relative, but also on your own health and precious life balance.

While we all hope that Alzheimer’s symptoms progress as slowly as possible, the search for solutions should already begin, whenever possible, at the onset of the disease. This preventive approach aims to maintain the person’s autonomy, well-being and safety.

In order to help seniors remain in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible, home care services provide an ideal solution. Although some symptoms may already be present, home support represents an advantageous and realistic option in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

With personalized assistance and high-quality care from professional caregivers, seniors affected by the early stages of this cognitive disorder can maintain maximum autonomy at home, while living in an environment that ensures their well-being.

Dedicated to seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (or a similar neurocognitive disorder), these residences offer a specially adapted environment and a range of services to efficiently respond to residents’ particular needs. Qualified staff and specialized care provide a safe and secure living environment, offering comfort for seniors affected by the disease, as well as reassurance for family and loved ones. Ultimately, every single situation is unique. And the typical symptoms associated with each of the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s disease may overlap. When the time comes to choose between home care or transition to a retirement home, the will and specific needs of the person are factors that must be taken into account.