The Progression Of Alzheimers Disease: Stages Of The Disease


Alzheimer disease is a very well known disease that is on the forefront of research. Scientists are trying to discover how this disease works, and treatments that can be used to counter the progressive nature of the disease. The progression of Alzheimers disease can vary from patient to patient, but it does seem to travel in a similar manner.

The Typical Progression Of Alzheimers Disease

Through years of research, doctors have determined the progression of Alzheimers disease. The initial stage is considered stage 1. During this period, there are no symptoms or signs of Alzheimer disease.

The next step in the progression of Alzheimers disease is stage 2. During this stage little symptoms begin to show. Becoming forgetful is one of the classic symptoms during this stage of the progression of Alzheimers disease. People may experience forgetting where they put something like keys or glasses. The symptoms do not appear that obvious, and are sometimes associated with being too busy or just getting older.

The third stage is when other people begin to notice the changes in a persons memory or abilities. This part of the progression of Alzheimers disease is when many begin talking to a physician and looking for answers to their forgetfulness. At this stage many people are beginning to have problems at work, reading something and then forgetting what it said. The symptoms are becoming more noticeable and severe.

The next stage in the progression of Alzheimer disease is stage four. The memory continues to decline and the ability to perform tasks becomes more of a problem. Just being able to plan an event, or do the checkbook is difficult.

The progression of Alzheimers disease then hits stage 5, where the individual may not remember their address, or phone number. They may become confused at simple questions. They will still be able to use a bathroom by themselves, but are becoming more confused during social situations.

The next two stages show an increase in the patients inability to physically take care of themselves. Stages 6 and 7 in the progression of Alzheimers disease are when constant care needs to occur. Patients may loose their ability to communicate, to swallow and they will need supervision. They may become unable to walk, sit-up by themselves and their muscles become rigid.

The average life span of a patient with Alzheimers is 8 years, but they can live anywhere from 3 to 20 years. The progression of Alzheimers disease is difficult for family members to watch as the stages indicate; it becomes a completely disabling disuse. If symptoms are noticed it is important to consult a physician for a complete evaluation.

Alzheimers Helpline

The total points earned on the test is considered the patients position on the Alzheimers disease assessment scale and their level on a scale of one to seven, with one being very little sign of loss of cognitive ability and seven, meaning probable institutionalization.

In fact, genes may only be a part of the overall picture of this disease. This medication is used in all levels of Alzheimers disease including mild, moderate, and severe. Alzheimers disease is the most common cause of dementia, and symptoms may include: loss of memory, difficulty in finding the right words or understanding what people are saying, difficulty in performing seemingly simple tasks, and personality and mood changes. Another one of the early signs of Alzheimers disease is confusion. Alzheimers Disease International also runs the Alzheimers University, which involves a series of practical workshops that are aimed at helping both staff and volunteers of the various Alzheimers associations to build and strengthen their organizations. Early signs of Alzheimers disease need to be monitored and taken seriously.

Some of the most common symptoms include forgetfulness, and confusion.
Alois Alzheimer. Since most of the patients are unable to communicate their needs, or complaints, reliance on these groups as well as visiting family members, makes it all that more important to carefully research Alzheimers nursing homes prior to placement of a loved one. In fact, this is because it may not have any one cause at all. What Testing is used for Alzheimers Disease?

Not everyone suffering from the disease will require constant care for an extended period, they may be able to live at home through the earliest progression of the disease, however once they reach the point that family can no longer serve as caregivers, Alzheimers nursing homes may be their only option.
It is also difficult to deal with because it is a fatal disease. By understanding the main elementals of what alzheimers is, youll be able to understand the medical aspect of the disease more easily. These people are not afraid, they simply cannot find the right words to use.