What are the Stages of Dementia?

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What are the stages of dementia? Well, that depends on which model you are using. Most physicians use the GDS or seven stage model, which we have already covered in another video. Today we will be going over the 3 stages model of dementia. Always be sure to check with your doctor as to which model they are using. The 3 stage model of dementia, as the name suggests, breaks the deterioration process into three stages:

Stage 1- Early or mild
Stage 2- Middle or moderate
Stage 3- Late or severe

It is important to note that when a person moves into the next phase in the process, they likely won’t show all the symptoms specific to that phase. People with dementia often fluctuate between phases, which can be confusing for families and caretakers.
In the early stage, the person with dementia is still independent. They may however begin to notice difficulty recalling newly learned information or a declining attention span. This person is still able to work to some degree, but coworkers may be able to notice a dip in performance. Organizational issues are also not uncommon during this stage. A common symptom of early stage dementia to look out for is the misplacing of items.
The middle stage of dementia is the longest and often the most difficult. It can last anywhere from 2 - 10 years. During the middle stage, driving may no longer be safe and generally, safety becomes a concern. Wandering is a common behavior for people in this stage of dementia. They may also have trouble initiating a task and can exhibit signs of fear, boredom, or feelings of disconnection. It may become difficult for them to read and write and language will need to be adapted to better suit them. This is when they will begin to need help with personal tasks, which may be difficult for the person to accept - leading to some troublesome and straining behaviors.
In the late stage, the person is often no longer able to communicate or has an extremely limited vocabulary. This person will likely be bedridden and require 24-hour care. As cognitive decline progresses, the person will stop being able to perform essential functions, eventually leading to death. This stage can last 1 - 2 years. During this time it is important to continue to treat the patient with dignity, even if they appear to be unresponsive.

[chrisjeffries]

Thank you, Deborah, for your knowledge.

[L.J.H.-sgeb]

I so enjoy your videos. You have helped me on this journey with my Momma. I love her with all my heart. She has always been my Rock. Now I have to be hers. Thank you so much for continually being a support for all of us. We need you. <3

[faylewis]

Thank you! Very informative. I have subscribed and look forward to following more of your videos. I'm caregiver for my husband of 45 years, aged 81.

[terriharrigan]

Wonderful video. My mum has Alzheimers and all this information is very helpful. Going from my best friend to someone who doesn’t know who I am ( thinks I am her sister) is devastating. Very helpful your video on ways of dealing with this evil disease.

[louisahenry]

Thankyou again for all the information you give in these videos, I really do love the way you put things accross, you make things very clear & understandable I am so glad I found your series I muddle through on a day to day basis often wondering what the he'll will come tomorrow , please continue with your excellent series I know that I and many others will benefit ....P S I especially enjoy those little instants of humour it helps

[pamelaleonard]

I can relate to most of this. Thanks for the information.

[torontokat]

I did watch your other video about your struggle with your brother. Your story resonates with me entirely because my brother is exactly the same. Your vlogs are great and help so much with understanding this Lewy Body Dementia that my father has. Thank you!

[AngiesAngelsHHCAZ]

This was so helpful for me concerning a loved one and clients.

[sharonmason]

My struggle is caregiving to my spouse who cannot hear or speak.

[debbiegarza]

Thank you for this episode! You answered a question I had. My spouse’s first language is Spanish. I always wondered as he regresses if that’s where he’d go. Thank you!

[laurasmith]

When will speech problems be detected ?

[sherrieludwig]

We do not have a diagnosis for my relative, but she requires dressing, bathing and toileting help. She is too weak to get up and wander, but she has fallen out of bed recently, I think she awakened and tried to walk to the bathroom. She is in a decent nursing home, but her needs are getting more severe, she seems to forget even how to operate the single call button to ask for assistance. It is scary and wearying.

[BarthHouse]

What are the tests for diagnosing Alzheimers. A relative exhibits a lot of the symptoms but she wants a definitive answer. Comparing older MRI' or CT's with new? Thanks