Stages of Alzheimer's

Comparable to the changing of the seasons, the progression of Alzheimer’s disease can be marked by a variety of particular differentiators. And although each individual experiences the condition distinctly, there are a number of prevalent commonalities that frequently present at each stage. Live Free Home Health Care of New Hampshire shares the signs below for family caregivers to be aware of, in an attempt to render the most suitable degree of care for each individual stage.

Early (Mild) Stage: Seniors in the beginning stage of Alzheimer’s are still fairly capable of functioning on their own in a range of areas, but problems with memory, focus, and the ability to concentrate begin to become obvious. The person might possibly:

  • Struggle to think of the correct word for something
  • Forget names of people recently met
  • Experience minimal difficulty with performing tasks
  • Misplace objects

Middle (Moderate) Stage: Many seniors experience this stage for the longest amount of time, often years, and gradually need additional care. Behavioral issues may become recognizable, including frustration and obstinacy. Also frequently experienced:

  • Enhanced memory loss, such as failing to remember personal information like address, phone number, occasions from their own past, the proper day and time, etc.
  • Moodiness and the affinity to retreat from social situations
  • Wandering
  • Repetitive or compulsive actions
  • Nighttime restlessness and challenges with maintaining typical sleeping patterns
  • Bladder and bowel control complications

Late (Severe) Stage: This concluding phase of Alzheimer’s includes the necessity for full-time, around-the-clock care to maintain the person’s safety and to manage personal care needs. Significant challenges are noted in cognitive functionality, the ability to interact in conversations, and gradually, with movement control. Typical in this stage:

  • Loss of realization of where and who they are
  • Challenges with walking, sitting, and swallowing
  • Heightened levels of sleep
  • Increased susceptibility to infections

It is necessary for family members to have in place a strong network of support during the course of each phase of the disease, in order to provide the very best care for their loved one with Alzheimer’s, and for their own health and wellbeing as well.

Live Free Home Health Care offers individualized in-home Alzheimer’s and dementia care, working with family caregivers to provide as much or as little support as required. In the beginning stage of the disease, this might involve a couple of hours each week of respite care, allowing family members the opportunity to take time for their own needs and to rest and refresh. In more advanced stages, 24-hour care can ensure the senior is protected and well cared for at all times, and that the everyday needs, such as meals, light housekeeping, laundry, and personal care for the elderly person are all taken care of – allowing families more quality time together.

To learn more, call on the Alzheimer’s care professionals at Live Free Home Health Care. You can reach us by phone at 603-217-0149, or by answering a few simple questions through our online contact form. With Live Free Home Health Care of New Hampshire, you always have a trusted care team to walk beside you through the journey of Alzheimer’s. It’s comforting to know you’re never alone!