Final Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
There are seven stages of Alzheimer's disease that are marked by periods of decline in the ability to function. The staging system is used so that family, caretakers and physicians can assess what plans need to be made and have a framework for what to expect in the coming months or years. The stages of Alzheimer's disease are broken into three categories: early stage, mid-stage and late stage. The late stages of Alzheimer's disease are difficult for everyone involved, as health worsens.
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Early Stages
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In order to understand the progression of the disease to late stages, it is important to have information on all stages of Alzheimer's disease. In Stage 1, there is generally no impairment and no problems with memory, so there is no diagnosis made of early Alzheimer's. Stage 2 involves a slight decline in cognitive abilities, which may be brushed off as normal or age-related. However, there may be memory lapses in which a person forgets where some items are and can't remember their location. Oftentimes, family, friends and physicians are unaware of this change in memory. Stage 3 is when Alzheimer's is normally diagnosed. Family and friends often notice the decline in cognition in the patient's ability to name things, remember people's names, read and perform normal tasks. Stage 4 is also considered a mild or early stage, where there is a significant reduction in one's memory in daily tasks and ability to remember one's own life and withdrawal in social situations. These patterns all lead to the later stages of Alzheimer's disease, which is marked by a more severe decline in health and cognition.
Stage 5 of Alzheimer's Disease
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As Alzheimer's disease progresses to Stage 5, there are severe gaps in memory, and many patients need assistance with the routines of daily living. Because of the decline in cognition, many suffer from the inability to remember information formerly taken for granted, such as recalling their telephone number, height and weight, or the name of the city where they were born. Confusion about the date, day, and season become common, which can lead to difficulty in maintaining one's own schedule and even choosing clothing that is appropriate for the season. In Stage 5, there is usually no assistance needed in eating or using the toilet, but some patients may begin to show signs of this progression.
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Stage 6 of Alzheimer's Disease
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Stage 6 of Alzheimer's disease is considered moderately severe as the memory issues continue to decline and changes in personality are often seen. Many need help with daily activities, such as getting dressed and using the toilet. Incontinence is common during the late stages of Alzheimer's disease. Many patients begin to lose awareness of recent events and often forget where they are, which can lead to aggression and other problems in behavior, delusions, suspicion and insomnia.There is often a tendency to wander during this period, so it is essential that the home or care facility be equipped with alarms. During Stage 6, many begin to forget the names of their caregiver and can only remember some details of their past.
Stage 7 of Alzheimer's Disease
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The final stage of Alzheimer's disease is Stage 7, which is known for the severe cognitive decline and inability to function. In this stage, many lose the ability to respond, speak and control their movement. Symptoms of early stages continue, but are marked by the inability to recognize speech; the words and phrases are not understood. Because of the loss of coordination, it is common for them to be unable to walk without assistance, and some may not be able to sit without support, hold up their head or smile. Reflexes in the body become rigid, and swallowing ability is impaired.
Late-Stage Care
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During the late phases of Alzheimer's it often becomes more evident to family or friends that round-the-clock care may be a necessary option in treating a loved one. It is normal for a caregiver to realize that a revised treatment plan may be necessary. When seeking a caregiver or facility, it is important to find a place that will not only provide daily care and assistance, but do so with support, encouragement and the respect and dignity that is deserved. If you choose to care for your loved one on your own, the National Institute on Aging offers information and tips for caregivers.
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