It can be challenging to navigate the dementia journey, particularly for the carers of a loved one suffering from memory loss. It is essential to comprehend the various stages of dementia, from the earliest symptoms to the final stages.
This article aims to give a thorough overview of the multiple stages of dementia and the signs, care plans, and medical interventions that go along with them.
Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia are just a few of the conditions that fall under the umbrella term of dementia. These conditions affect cognitive abilities, resulting in decreased memory and daily function.
Dementia is divided into three main stages by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE): mild dementia, moderate dementia, and severe dementia. Early, middle, and late stages of dementia are represented by these stages, respectively.
Minor memory issues and mild cognitive impairment are characteristics of mild dementia, frequently referred to as early-stage dementia. At this point, the person might have trouble recalling recent events or handling challenging tasks.
The initial stage of dementia symptoms is known as mild dementia or early-stage dementia. Family members might notice a loved one struggling with daily tasks or recalling recent events.
Even though the symptoms might not be severe enough to affect day-to-day activities, those close to the person can still see them. Memory loss, one of the most prevalent signs of dementia, becomes apparent at this stage.
At this stage, people may need help putting their thoughts into words during conversations, forget familiar people’s or places’ names, or repeat questions or statements. It’s critical to get medical help if you experience such symptoms.
The symptoms worsen during the middle stage of dementia, also known as moderate dementia. As cognitive decline becomes more prominent, assistance with daily tasks is frequently needed. This stage can last for several years and is typically the longest.
Compared to the early stage, memory issues are more severe at this stage. They may need to recall recent experiences or private information and become disoriented. Additionally, their personalities and behaviours might change.
Planning is necessary to deal with this stage. With daily tasks like eating, dressing, and bathing, the dementia patient may require assistance. Some might profit from residing in a care facility with round-the-clock access to qualified assistance.
When a person needs other people’s care, they are said to have severe dementia or late-stage dementia.
They may have trouble recognising friends or family because their cognitive function is severely compromised. Everyone involved is facing difficulties at this time, especially the carers.
At this point, the individual might require ongoing supervision and assistance with activities of daily living. They might experience disorientation and have trouble walking. In some circumstances, they might lose the ability to speak out loud.
At this point, lifecare may entail placing the person in a nursing home or setting up hospice care. In this stage, maintaining comfort over maintaining brain health becomes the main goal of treatment.
The rate at which dementia progresses differs significantly from person to person. The type of dementia, general brain health, and the person’s physical health can all affect how quickly symptoms advance.
For instance, Alzheimer’s may take years to develop slowly, whereas vascular or frontotemporal dementia may advance more rapidly.
Professionals use the clinical dementia rating (CDR) to track dementia development. The CDR thoroughly evaluates a person’s condition by examining cognitive function and the capacity to carry out daily activities.
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Meet the author
Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.