Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition that progresses through different stages, each characterized by specific changes and symptoms. Understanding these stages is crucial for individuals with Alzheimer’s, their families, and caregivers. Explore the information below to gain insights into the stages of Alzheimer’s disease and the progression from one stage to another.

The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is typically described in terms of stages that reflect the severity of symptoms. The stages can help in understanding the changes experienced by individuals with Alzheimer’s and the impact on their lives and the lives of their caregivers.

Progression from Stage to Stage

Alzheimer’s disease involves the progressive degeneration of brain cells. However, it’s important to note that the symptoms, their order of appearance, and the duration of each stage can vary from person to person.

In most cases, the progression is slow, and the symptoms of each stage may overlap, making it challenging to discern the transition from one stage to another. For an overview of the progression stages, you can refer to the Progression – Overview (PDF) document, which provides a summary of the stages and information on end-of-life issues.

The Early Stage

The early stage refers to individuals, regardless of age, who exhibit mild impairment due to Alzheimer’s symptoms. Some common symptoms experienced during the early stage include:

• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty learning new things and following conversations
• Difficulty concentrating or limited attention span
• Mood changes, including apathy and depression
• Mild coordination problems

These symptoms may not be easily noticeable, and the person in the early stage often retains many of their abilities, not requiring immediate assistance. However, they may encounter difficulties, such as struggling to complete tasks they previously excelled at. Individuals in the early stage may have an understanding of their changing abilities and can communicate their experiences to others. They may also take steps to plan for their future care and finances.

For more detailed information about the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, you can refer to the Progression – The Early Stage (PDF) document.

The Middle Stage

The middle stage of Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by a greater decline in cognitive and functional abilities. Memory and other cognitive functions continue to deteriorate, although individuals may still have some awareness of their condition. During this stage:

• Caregivers become more involved in the person’s care.
• Consideration may be given to moving the person to a long-term care home for the first time.
• Community programs and services, such as adult day programs and respite care, can provide valuable support.
• Everyone involved, including the person living with Alzheimer’s, requires increased help and support to navigate the growing changes.

To gain a deeper understanding of the middle stage and its challenges, you can refer to the Progression – The Middle Stage (PDF) document.

The Late Stage

The late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, also known as the “severe” or “advanced” stage, is characterized by significant mental and physical deterioration. Individuals in this stage gradually lose their ability to communicate verbally and care for themselves independently. Nonverbal communication becomes crucial, and the following changes may occur:

• Severe impairment in memory, processing new information, and recognizing time and place
• Loss of recognizable speech
• Dependence on assistance for basic activities such as eating, walking, and toileting

At this stage, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease often require 24-hour care. Caregivers play a vital role in supporting them to maintain the highest possible quality of life. To learn more about the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, you can refer to the Progression – The Late Stage (PDF) document.

End of Life

In the final months of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals experience increased mental and physical deterioration, necessitating round-the-clock care. During this stage, the focus shifts to palliative care and providing comfort. It is essential to respect the person’s wishes as they approach the end of life.

End-of-life care for individuals with dementia requires special considerations, and you can find more information in our dedicated section on end-of-life care.

To access additional resources and details about each stage of Alzheimer’s disease, please visit the Alzheimer Society of Canada’s website: The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Getting a Diagnosis

To effectively manage the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and slow its progression, early diagnosis is crucial. If you have concerns about Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, it is important to seek a diagnosis as soon as possible. Learn more about the diagnosis process and available options by exploring our information on how to get a diagnosis.

Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and its progression cannot be reversed, various treatment options and brain-healthy lifestyle choices can significantly slow down the progression. To learn more about available treatment options, you can refer to our website and consult with healthcare professionals.

Remember, understanding the stages of Alzheimer’s disease and accessing appropriate resources and support can greatly assist individuals with Alzheimer’s, their families, and caregivers in navigating the challenges associated with the disease.