Stages of Alzheimer’s
- The Alzheimer’s Association divides the progression of the disease
into seven stages (other sources may divide it into fewer, broader stages).
- Patients live an average of 8 to 10 years after diagnosis, but some may live significantly
longer.
- Understanding the demands associated with each of the stages of Alzheimer’s can
help you plan for your loved one’s care.
Next Step
Learn about treatments that can alleviate some symptoms.
Learn more
Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t follow a neatly predictable course, but its progression
can be roughly divided into seven stages. Note that divisions between stages may
be somewhat subjective.
- Stage 1: No impairment
- Stage 2: Very mild decline
- Stage 3: Mild decline
- Stage 4: Moderate decline (mild or early stage)
- Stage 5: Moderately severe decline (moderate or mid-stage)
- Stage 6: Severe decline (moderately severe or mid-stage)
- Stage 7: Very severe decline (severe or late stage)
In the early stages, the person continues to function somewhat independently. Short-term
memory and concentration have begun to fade, and speech may be slightly impaired.
Hygiene may begin to slip, and the person may respond in an erratic or highly emotional
way to changes. Daily tasks may take longer, but are often still possible. It’s
important to communicate with your loved one about the changes while he or she remains
aware of them.
Symptoms become pronounced and obvious in the early-middle stages, including frequent
disorientation and an inability to learn new information. Poor coordination can
lead to accidents, and simple decisions may be overwhelming. The individual may
not be able to remember personal history and will likely have trouble with math
problems.
Individuals in the late-middle stages are able to perform simple tasks but may not
recall their purpose. Simple decisions become difficult, and awareness of recent
experiences and surroundings is often lost. Personality changes may occur. The person
may wander off or get lost on the way to the bathroom. Supervision of most activities
is required, including getting dressed.
Severe or late-stage Alzheimer’s typically lasts one to five years, during which
the person requires constant care. He or she is likely unable to carry on conversations
or control movements, and may experience hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia.
Eventually, the Alzheimer’s sufferer is unable to speak or get out of bed. Death
is often caused by a complication such as pneumonia, dehydration, malnutrition,
or infection of the lungs, skin, or urinary tract.
Next Step: Learn about drug and non-drug treatments.
