Alzheimers Stages

Each individual will progress through the Alzheimers Stages at their own rate. No one can predict how long they will stay in each stage or how rapidly the disease may progress.

The Alzheimers Association has produced a list of the 7 stages of Alzheimers that is widely accepted.

But knowing the stages of Alzheimers disease is just the beginning ....

What to do is usually the next question.

The 7 stages of Alzheimers can be easily grouped into early, mid and late stages.

At each stage, as a caregiver, you will notice different symptoms of Alzheimers. But you can learn to adapt and manage each different stage at home.

Many caregivers do choose to place their loved one int an extended care facility during the last or terminal stage of Alzheimer's. It gives them the opportunity to be only a loving family member and spend quality time with their loved one during this devastating phase.

Alzheimers is a progressive disease. But how long each person spends in each stage is individual.

Try not to become overwhelmed. Try to follow the advice I gave every family member every time.

Hope and pray for the best outcome, but prepare for the worst.

It may sound cold, and I don't mean it to. But the more prepared you are as a caregiver, the better you will handle every possible outcome, for both you and your loved one.

There is no definitive Alzheimers Test . Diagnosis is made on a series of exams and review of symptoms. There are, however, several diagnostic tools your medical provider will utilize to make the diagnosis.

Early Stage of Alzheimers

The early stages of Alzheimers disease encompass Stages 1-3. Stage 1 is normal cognitive function, meaning there is no cognitive decline that is noticeable or can be tested or treated.

It ends with Stage 3, where some, but not all, individuals can be diagnosed by a medical professional.

During these stages, most people are still able to live independently, so these stages may have already gone by prior to your becoming a caregiver.

It is still a good idea for you to understand these beginning stages and the management tips provided may also help you in the following stages.

For more information regarding the early Alzheimers stages, click the link provided below for an overview and management tips for the home care setting.

Early Stage of Alzheimers

Middle Stages of Alzheimers

The middle, or moderate, Alzheimers Stages includes stage 4 to stage 6. It is during this time that most people are diagnosed with Alzheimers.

It may also be during these stages that you become a caregiver. In-home care is a viable option during these stages.

There are many tips and techniques that can help you manage your loved one at home during these middle stages of Alzheimers.

Caregiver stress is common though. You will have to find a balance between caretaking and your life. Try leaning on friends and relatives to give you some much needed "you" time.

It is also a good idea to join a local Alzheimer's Support Group. Being able to communicate with others that are actually going through this process can be a huge help. If you find yourself tired, frustrated and overwhelmed ... reach out to those in the same position as you.

For more information and management tips on the middle stages of Alzheimer's Disease, click the link provided below.

End Stage of Alzheimers

Stage 7 is the final, or terminal, stage of Alzheimers. It is also referred to as severe or late-stage Alzheimers.

As a caregiver, this is a terribly hard stage. Not only does your loved one lose the ability to respond to their environment, they may lose their ability to perform any daily care activities, including eating, dressing, grooming and toileting.

If you are the only caregiver, at this point, you may simply not be able to provide all the care your loved one needs.

That is okay. Get help. You can look into having help come into your home, everything from bath aides to licensed nurses, therapist and social workers.

Look into the support that your local Hospice Agencies can provide for you. They are a wonderful resource for both you and your loved one. Hospice benefits are covered under Medicare and can be utilized in your own home or in a nursing home.

For more information of the last Alzheimers stage and how to manage this stage as a caregiver, click the link provided below.

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