|
|||
|
Alzheimer's & more
|
|||
|
What Alzheimer stages are and what you can expect at each stage
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition and the symptoms get worse with time. Since each individual responds differently to the disease, the signs of Alzheimer's disease may vary from one person to another. Still, if caregivers are aware of the disease's stages, it will help them provide effective care for the patient. Each stage will involve thinking, behavioral, memory and mood changes on the part of the sufferer. The right care can help manage the symptoms better and provide the patient a better experience for a longer time. Stage 1 This is described by FAST system as a normal adult stage, with no loss of memory or other mental functions. Stage 2 At this stage, the person is aware that their capabilities are declining. They may experience loss of memory. They may have difficulty remembering names of friends and family. Family members may think that this is part of the normal ageing process although it may be one of Alzheimer's early symptoms. Stage 3 Symptoms can be noticed more easily now. The patient may become anxious and may deny that there is anything wrong with them. The person may not be able to do as well at work as before, partly due to difficulty in concentrating effectively. They may get lost when going through unfamiliar areas. They have trouble remembering names of people newly introduced to them. They often can't recollect what a book they just read was all about. Misplacing objects is common as well. Stage 4 At this stage (called mild Alzheimer's disease), the patient may start losing memory of some parts of their lives. Traveling can be a problem and concentrating on a task is difficult. They may put off dealing with challenges in various areas of their life. They need help to deal with involved things like finances. Their mood may plunge and they may still be in denial. Stage 5 Said to be moderate Alzheimer's, the patient needs help in many areas. They may still recall the highlights of who they and their family members are, but other memories may be fuzzy or non-existent. They need help even with choosing clothes to wear each day. Stage 6 This stage is called 'moderately severe'. The sufferer likely won't remember significant information about themselves and others. They may not remember their spouse's name. They can't bathe or dress by themselves. Sleep tends to be disturbed and urinary incontinence sets in. Their personality may change significantly. Deep anxiety is often seen at this stage. The patient may take on various delusional or sometimes obsessive behaviors. Stage 7 This stage is called severe Alzheimer's disease. The sufferer may lose the ability to even hold up their head. They may not be able to sit up, walk, etc. Their vocabulary is often limited to just half a dozen words. At this stage, the brain seemingly no longer communicates effectively with the body. Those are the Alzheimer's stages according to the FAST system. Awareness of these stages is important for caregivers.
|
|||
|
|
|||
