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The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
No Noticeable Cognitive Impairment
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In the earliest stage of Alzheimer's disease, there will be no visible impairment in memory or other brain functions, even under the close examination of a qualified physician.
Very Mild Decline in Cognitive Function
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The second stage is still early in the process, and it may not be evident to close family and friends or a doctor. It is more akin to age-related memory loss and is noticeable generally only by the one suffering from the disease. It is characterized by having trouble recalling names, places, or where belongings such as purse or house keys where last placed.
Mild Decline in Cognitive Function
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This is really the first stage in which a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can be performed. The symptoms are more pronounced, though a diagnosis may not always be possible in this stage. It is characterized my inability to retain new information, decreased performance at work and an inability to organize or make plans. Also, memory lapses become much more pronounced and noticeable by family, friends and coworkers.
Moderate Decline in Cognitive Function
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At this stage of Alzheimer's disease a diagnosis is clear and steps will begin to treat the symptoms. Those patients in this stage will exhibit symptoms such as the inability to perform tasks such as keeping up with their finances or making any sort of complex plans. Also, some memories of personal history will be forgotten and new associations will generally not be retained.
Moderately Severe Decline in Cognitive Function
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This is considered the mid-stage of Alzheimer's disease. Those suffering in this stage will generally require daily help with many normal activities. Memory gaps will be wider and more severe, though major information such as deep-seeded memories and knowledge of family and their names will still be recalled. However, things such as address or the date (including the month or even the season) may be forgotten on a regular basis.
Severe Decline in Cognitive Function
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This stage of Alzheimer's disease will result in a severe memory loss and almost complete disappearance of the awareness of the person's immediate surroundings. Memory of close friends, family and children will have begun to fade, including their names and faces. A person in this stage may also need help with activities such as bathing and using the toilet. It is in this stage where hallucinations may begin as well as wandering away and becoming lost.
Very Severe Decline in Cognitive Function
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This is the final stage of Alzheimer's disease where the symptoms are incredibly severe. The person suffering will no longer be able to recall any memories, though the most severe aspect of this phase is the inability of the person to communicate or physically interact with their surroundings. Virtually all aspects of their daily lives will require assistance. The ability to speak, to swallow, to smile, to walk or to sit up without some sort of support will be lost or severely impaired in this stage.
eHow Article: The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
