Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer's Disease


Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease typically progresses slowly through three main stages: early, middle, and late (also referred to as mild, moderate, and severe in medical contexts). While each individual’s experience may differ, understanding these stages can help caregivers and families prepare for the journey ahead.

Early-Stage Alzheimer’s (Mild)

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, individuals may still function independently but experience memory lapses, such as forgetting familiar words or misplacing objects. Though symptoms may not be widely apparent, close friends and family may begin to notice changes.

Common Difficulties Include:

•    Forgetting recent conversations or names.

•    Difficulty performing everyday tasks in social or work settings.

•    Losing or misplacing valuable objects.

•    Increased difficulty with planning or organizing.

During this stage, individuals can still actively participate in decisions about their care and future plans. Early diagnosis can help maximize quality of life and allow access to necessary resources.

Middle-Stage Alzheimer’s (Moderate)

Middle-stage Alzheimer’s is usually the longest stage and may last for many years. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced, requiring greater levels of care and supervision.

Common Symptoms Include:

•    Forgetfulness about personal history and important events.

•    Increased confusion about time and place.

•    Difficulty choosing appropriate clothing.

•    Changes in sleep patterns, mood swings, and withdrawal from social situations.

•    Increased risk of wandering and getting lost.

•    Difficulty controlling bladder and bowel functions.

Caregivers may need additional support as the person with Alzheimer’s experiences behavioral changes and increased dependency on assistance for daily activities.

Late-Stage Alzheimer’s (Severe)

In the final stage of the disease, cognitive and physical decline become severe, and individuals require around-the-clock care. Communication abilities diminish, and responding to the environment becomes increasingly difficult.

Common Symptoms Include:

•    Loss of awareness of surroundings and recent experiences.

•    Difficulty speaking or forming coherent sentences.

•    Declining physical abilities, including difficulty walking and swallowing.

•    Increased vulnerability to infections, such as pneumonia.

At this stage, hospice care and other palliative support services can help provide comfort and dignity to individuals and their families.

Seeking Support and Resources

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a challenging journey, but support is available. Whether through community programs, respite care, or caregiver support groups, finding the right resources can help ease the burden and improve quality of life for both individuals with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.

For more information on Alzheimer’s stages, treatment options, and caregiving support, visit www.alz.org

Contact: Lionell Martin, Public Relations Manager, Alzheimer’s Association, lrmartin@alz.org, 773.593.4211.

About the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) that is available 365 days a year. Specialists and master’s-level clinicians provide confidential support and information to individuals living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.





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