Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia have different symptoms and manifestations. Lewy body dementia, for example, can cause hallucinations in some people, while Alzheimer’s disease patients may not experience them.
However, many forms of dementia share the same stages. Recognizing where the person you love seems to be in their journey with dementia can help you understand the level of care they currently need and what they are likely to need in the future.
Let’s look at the differences between the stages so that you and your family will be well-informed.
The early stages of dementia can be difficult to identify. Some symptoms are similar to how scattered many of us feel when life turns a bit harried. Therefore, it’s important not to panic if your mind goes blank sometimes or you notice an occasional blank in a loved one.
However, if you sense a pattern emerging, visiting a physician can help you or your loved one understand if there might be a reason to begin treatment to help slow cognitive loss.
People in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease often misplace items like car keys or an important document. Other memory problems people with dementia experience include forgetting information they've just looked up, the name of someone they’d recently met, or the right word for a familiar object.
In addition, people in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease or dementia may notice they’re not as proficient with mental tasks as they once were. For example, if someone once well-known for their planning skills has trouble keeping things organized, it’s potentially an early sign of dementia. Similarly, having difficulty carrying out tasks involving more than one or two steps can also be an early sign of cognitive loss.
As worrying as a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or other dementia disorders may be, early confirmation can be helpful in the care and treatment. It gives people time to make decisions about their future. It also allows them a head start in changing their wellness routine, including eating healthier and staying active. They can also begin different forms of cognitive and memory care therapies.
RELATED BLOG: Impactful Memory Care: SAIDO Learning® is a Hopeful Therapy
By the middle stages of dementia or Alzheimer's disease, cognitive loss is more easily identifiable. For example, in the case of Alzheimer's, the nerve cell damage in the brain that is associated with the disease becomes more pronounced. This interim stage of dementia may last several years before worsening significantly.
During the middle stage, people may go from not remembering names and random facts to forgetting elements of their own history. They may not recall where they used to work or even their address. Getting lost is also a more regular occurrence. At times, a person with middle-stage Alzheimer's might suddenly become unaware of their surroundings and not know how they got to where they are.
Dementia can also impact the personality of the person living with it. Especially in social situations or hectic environments, the person may get irritable, moody, or “check out.” They may also start expressing thoughts that strike others as paranoid or begin compulsively talking about ideas that seem delusional.
New habits will also emerge. They may take to shredding bits of paper or wringing their hands. Sleeping less at night and more during the daytime becomes more common, as may dressing inappropriately for the weather or occasion, or not always making it to the bathroom on time.
RELATED BLOG: What Exactly is Memory Care?
Unfortunately, the last stages of dementia tend to be the most severe. There will be many times when the person won’t recognize their loved ones or understand where they are. Walking and other movements become difficult, as does talking.
Eventually, swallowing will be a challenge, and there will be an increased risk of serious health issues such as pneumonia. Not surprisingly, this stage of life requires constant care to help with dressing, bathroom needs, eating, and taking medicine.
Unfortunately, in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia forms, conversing can become difficult. But even if your loved one can’t always know who you are or where they are, they’ll still be soothed by your loving touch and enjoy familiar music and other comfort items.
Discussing the best treatment plans for your spouse, parent, or loved one can be challenging. If possible, ask to set up an appointment with their doctor, which you can also attend. This will help you determine what, if any, stage of dementia they may be currently experiencing. The doctor may also have some recommended treatment approaches for the near future.
If it’s time to consider professional memory care within a retirement community, the team at Marjorie P. Lee is happy to answer any questions you and your family members may have. Together, we can find the best solution for your family. Contact us today to learn more.
At Marjorie P. Lee, we provide memory support that offers expert person-centered care. Our team members ensure residents continue to live with dignity and respect, while providing a vibrant community where they can truly thrive. If you or a loved one are exploring memory care options, we invite you to experience the warmth and exceptional care at Marjorie P. Lee.
Learn more about memory and cognitive health challenges as well as care options in our free Dementia Guidebook.