{"id":248196,"date":"2023-11-24T10:00:57","date_gmt":"2023-11-24T15:00:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging.visavie.com\/7-stages-of-alzheimers-disease-understanding-to-better-help"},"modified":"2026-03-03T14:19:31","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T19:19:31","slug":"7-stages-of-alzheimers-disease-understanding-to-better-help","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/7-stages-of-alzheimers-disease-understanding-to-better-help","title":{"rendered":"The 7 stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease: understanding to better help"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"et_pb_section_0 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_0 et_pb_row et_block_row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_0 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>As part of the large family of <strong>neurocognitive disorders,<\/strong> <strong>Alzheimer's <\/strong>disease unfortunately affects many seniors. To better understand this condition and thus better support our elderly loved ones who are affected by it, let's take a look at the <strong>seven stages of Alzheimer's disease.<\/strong> <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Based on symptoms and the person's level of independence, these different stages provide a better understanding of how <strong>dementia<\/strong> <strong>progresses<\/strong> over time. A good understanding of these stages makes it possible to adapt services and care in real time, ensuring the <strong>well-being<\/strong> and <strong>safety<\/strong> of <strong>seniors<\/strong> affected by this disease. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>The 7 stages of Alzheimer's disease according to the Reisberg scale<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Also known as the \"<em>global deterioration scale<\/em>,\" the <strong>Reisberg scale<\/strong> is intended as a reference for classifying the <strong>progression<\/strong> of Alzheimer's disease based on the severity of cognitive <strong>symptoms<\/strong>, as well as the<strong> limitations<\/strong> experienced by the individual in their daily life.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>To this day, this system is used by healthcare professionals and caregivers to better understand the<strong> impact<\/strong> of the disease, at a specific point in time, on the activities and<strong> independence<\/strong> of a person with Alzheimer's.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 1: No symptoms<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>At this stage, there are no particular problems to report. If in doubt, for example if your <strong>elderly relative<\/strong> is experiencing minor memory lapses, it is best to have the diagnosis confirmed by a healthcare professional. It is important to remember that changes attributable to <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/alzheimer-ou-vieillissement\">normal aging<\/a> must always be distinguished from actual <strong>Alzheimer's disease.<\/strong>  <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 2: Very mild cognitive impairment<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>This is when the<strong> first symptoms<\/strong> of Alzheimer's appear. Although mild, the onset of cognitive impairment is noticeable at this stage. This most often manifests itself in memory loss and forgetting small details of everyday life. If one of your loved ones is suffering from <strong>stage 2 Alzheimer's<\/strong>, be aware that they may forget where they have put everyday objects, confuse names, or struggle to find the right words.<\/p>\n<p>   <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 3: Alzheimer's disease with mild cognitive symptoms<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Still considered part of the \"pre-dementia\" phase, it is at this stage that the disease generally begins to show the first <strong>noticeable signs<\/strong>. Concentration problems, difficulty with orientation, and limitations in performing more complex tasks are some examples of <strong>classic symptoms<\/strong> in a <strong>Stage 3 Alzheimer's <\/strong>diagnosis. It is also at this point in the progression of the disease that neuropsychological tests become more easily measurable during assessments by healthcare professionals. Fortunately, in most cases, <strong>independence<\/strong> in everyday life remains intact at this stage of the disease, allowing the person to continue to carry out most of their activities.   <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>If one of your <strong>elderly loved<\/strong> ones has stage 3 (or higher) Alzheimer's disease, be aware that he or she may be in <strong>denial <\/strong>about their situation. In such cases, support from family and friends can make a big difference. If you are a <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/sante-mentale-des-proches-aidants-prendre-soin-de-ceux-qui-prennent-soin\">caregiver<\/a> or regularly interact with an elderly person with Alzheimer's, don't hesitate to take advantage of the <strong>resources<\/strong> available to you, both for your own well-being and that of your loved one.  <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 4: Cognitive impairment with moderate deficit<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>According to several experts, this stage marks the onset of the <strong>dementia<\/strong> phase often associated with Alzheimer's disease. The most common <strong>symptoms<\/strong> may include: <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>difficulty performing complex tasks;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>problem with planning and organization;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>more frequent forgetfulness, especially regarding recent events;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>limited ability to solve calculations or manage finances.<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Although the <strong>progression<\/strong> of the disease varies from person to person, stage 4 Alzheimer's marks, for some, the onset of the first symptoms that can affect a person's <strong>behavior<\/strong>. As physical and cognitive symptoms progress, <strong>mood disorders<\/strong> such as anxiety, <strong>depression<\/strong>, and <strong>anxiety<\/strong> may develop. In order to help these individuals, strategies can be put in place to better <a href=\"https:\/\/alzheimer.ca\/fr\/les-aides-et-le-soutien\/je-suis-atteint-dun-trouble-neurocognitif\/gerer-les-changements-survenant-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">manage these strong emotions.<\/a>  <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 5: Moderate to severe cognitive symptoms<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>At this intermediate stage of Alzheimer's disease, several significant symptoms tend to appear. <strong>Memory loss<\/strong> generally becomes more frequent and performing simple everyday <strong>tasks<\/strong> becomes more difficult. Typical examples include difficulty choosing one's own clothes, counting\/calculating, or finding one's way around.  <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>It is therefore at <strong>stage 5 <\/strong>of <strong>Alzheimer's<\/strong> that the person's loss of <strong>independence <\/strong>becomes more significant. In order to maintain maximum independence for seniors and allow them to continue enjoying the comforts of home, <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/aide-a-domicile-pour-personne-agee\">home care<\/a> becomes essential. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 6: Severe cognitive impairment with behavioral disorders<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Defined by significant cognitive impairment and <strong>dementia<\/strong> that is often considered severe, stage 6 <strong>Alzheimer's<\/strong> disease represents another turning point in the progression of this neurodegenerative disorder. In addition to worsening memory loss, particularly with regard to recent events, personality and <strong>behavioral<\/strong> disorders may appear in some people with the disease. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>Frequent forgetfulness and confusion, especially with regard to short-term memory;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>Daily assistance required for hygiene care (toileting, bathing, etc.);<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>Possible onset of incontinence problems;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>Behavioral disorders and mood changes (agitation, hallucinations, anxiety, delusions, etc.);<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>Difficulty remembering names and relationships (even though the person may still be able to recognize certain familiar faces).<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><strong>Stage 6 Alzheimer's<\/strong> therefore requires constant presence and <strong>supervision<\/strong>. For their own safety and well-being, it is recommended that elderly loved ones not be left alone in such circumstances. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>In order to help <strong>seniors<\/strong> themselves, as well as their families and <strong>caregivers<\/strong>, professional home care <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/aide-a-domicile-pour-personne-agee-2\/maintien-a-domicile\">services can be a valuable resource.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Stage 7: Alzheimer's disease with severe impairment and major limitations<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Marking the most advanced stage of Alzheimer's disease, <strong>stage 7<\/strong> involves severe <strong>cognitive<\/strong> impairment and significant <strong>limitations<\/strong> in most areas of daily life. In addition to the significant memory problems characteristic of <strong>Alzheimer's<\/strong>, <strong>physical symptoms<\/strong> may intensify: <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>coordination problems causing difficulty sitting or walking;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>more limited facial expressions\/smiles;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>interaction plus difficile avec l\u2019entourage ;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>swallowing disorders (difficulty eating and drinking);<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>assistance required during meals and basic care (hygiene, washing, etc.);<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>more hunched posture, even when seated;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>muscle stiffness, etc.<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>The duration of stage <strong>7 Alzheimer's<\/strong> varies from person to person and can depend on a number of factors. In all cases, however, the person affected must receive continuous <strong>care<\/strong> and <strong>assistance<\/strong> in order to maintain the best possible <strong>quality of life<\/strong> under the circumstances. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>Alzheimer's and aggression: how to respond?<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Among the many <strong>symptoms<\/strong> of Alzheimer's disease, <strong>aggression <\/strong>is often one of the most concerning for the loved ones of those affected. Although the <strong>aggressive phase<\/strong> does not affect everyone, and certainly not in the same way from one situation to another, it is an aspect of the disease that can be difficult to know <strong>how to respond to<\/strong>. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>If an elderly loved one with Alzheimer's disease displays verbal aggression or agitated behavior, here are some tips to follow:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>do your best to stay <strong>calm;<\/strong><\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>try to <strong>reassure<\/strong> your loved one;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>ensure that the person's immediate environment is <strong>safe;<\/strong><\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>avoid physical contact;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>investigate the <strong>cause<\/strong> of aggressive behavior in order to understand its origin and limit the risk of recurrence;<\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>If the situation seems dangerous, leave the premises and ask for <strong>help.<\/strong><\/li>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Are you concerned about your loved one's <strong>aggressive behavior<\/strong> due to Alzheimer's disease? Would you like to <a href=\"https:\/\/alzheimer.ca\/fr\/les-aides-et-le-soutien\/programmes-et-services\/trouver-du-soutien\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">find support<\/a>? <em>The Alzheimer Society <\/em>of Canada is here to guide you to the right <strong>resources<\/strong> available in your area. If you are facing this situation, don't hesitate to take advantage of the various support options available to you!   <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Remember that you are <strong>not alone,<\/strong> and that surrounding yourself with the right people shows how much you care about the well-being of your loved one, as well as your own health and precious life balance.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2>Solutions: home care or transition to a nursing home?<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Although we all want <strong>Alzheimer's<\/strong> <strong>symptoms<\/strong> to progress as slowly as possible, the search for <strong>solutions<\/strong> should begin as soon as the disease appears. This preventive approach aims to maintain the person's independence, well-being, and safety. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Home care for seniors with Alzheimer's disease<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><strong>Home care services<\/strong> are a tailor-made solution that allows seniors to remain in the <strong>comfort<\/strong> of their own homes for as long as possible. Despite the onset of certain symptoms, staying at home is an advantageous and realistic option in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>With p<strong>ersonalized support services <\/strong>and <strong>quality care<\/strong> from <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/aide-a-domicile-pour-personne-agee\">professional caregivers<\/a>, seniors in the early stages of this cognitive disorder can maintain maximum<strong> independence<\/strong> at home while living in an environment that ensures their well-being.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3>Residence for Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Specially designed for seniors with <em>Alzheimer's disease<\/em> (or similar neurocognitive disorders), these <strong>residences<\/strong> offer an <strong>adapted<\/strong> environment and a range of <strong>services <\/strong>that effectively meet the specific <strong>needs<\/strong> of residents. Qualified staff and specialized care allow seniors to enjoy a <strong>safe living environment<\/strong>, providing comfort for those affected by the disease and some relief for family and loved ones. <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Of course, each case is different. And the typical symptoms of each of the <strong>seven stages of Alzheimer's disease<\/strong> can sometimes overlap. When it comes time to choose between home care and <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/trouver-une-residence-pour-personne-agee\">moving to a nursing home,<\/a> the person's wishes and specific individual <strong>needs<\/strong> are factors that must be taken into account in this important decision.  <\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:separator {\"className\":\"is-style-dots\"} --><\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\">\n<!-- \/wp:separator --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"textAlign\":\"center\",\"level\":4} --><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"has-text-align-center\">To benefit from <strong>personalized support<\/strong>, characterized by attentiveness, empathy, and proactivity, we invite you to <a href=\"https:\/\/visavie.com\/nous-joindre\">contact a member of the Visavie team<\/a>, who will be happy to assist you. Together, you can then work toward finding the best <strong>solution!<\/strong> <\/h4>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1045],"tags":[],"post_folder":[],"class_list":["post-248196","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-neurocognitive-disorders"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/248196","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=248196"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/248196\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=248196"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=248196"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=248196"},{"taxonomy":"post_folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visavie.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_folder?post=248196"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}