What are the different stages of Dementia?
Stages are divided generally into early, moderate and advanced stage, although no system is perfect and the stages can overlap.
Mild or Early Stage
Early symptoms can include a mild decline in thinking and forgetfulness. General forgetfulness is common as we all get older but in dementia this happens with increased frequency. Performing certain tasks such as paying bills may become a problem. Small changed in personality may also become apparent.
At this stage, a person with dementia may start to realize that something is not quite right. Many people may live in denial for years.
Moderate Stage
Symptoms become more difficult to hide as the condition progresses. People may begin to stop attending to their personal self care and grooming. Memory loss may increase and family members may notice an increase in personality changes. Increased confusion and even fear may become more noticeable, with even signs of paranoia becoming evident. The person may also begin to suffer from disturbed sleep patterns.
Advanced Stage
As dementia progresses, it can significantly impair a person’s memory and ability to function in day to day life. Late-stage dementia may include increasing inability to communicate, walk and may lead to incontinence. At this stage, the person will usually need full-time personal care – help with eating, bathing, dressing and general help in daily life.
Dementia Care at Home Book Series
Find out more about living and caring well at home by clicking on the links below.
101 Tips on Staying Safe at Home with Dementia:
Avoid Falls, Floods, Injuries, Accidents, Doorstep Crime and More ....
Dementia Care at Home, book 1.
Dementia Caregiver
Dementia Caregiver: Inspirational Messages of Support for Family Caregivers Everywhere.
Dementia Care at Home, book 2.
Dementia and the Life Ahead
A thoroughly practical guide on living with dementia: diagnosis, symptoms, stages, what to expect, caregiving, and paving the way to live with dignity and grace.
Dementia Care at Home Series, Book 3.