The Second Stage: Moderate Alzheimers Dementia
Moderate Dementia Stage Changes
In most cases of moderate Alzheimers dementia, the disease has spread to areas of the brain that control language, reasoning, sensory processing, and conscious thought, causing previous symptoms to become more pronounced. Damage to the brain can make it difficult for people to say what theyre thinking or complete basic tasks, such as paying bills. But they may still remember important details about their personal history. This is typically the longest stage, potentially lasting for many years. Symptoms of this period may include:
What Are The 7 Stages Of DementiaDementia does not affect every person in the same way. It presents itself differently in each individual and progresses at different rates. Some people will stay in a state of mild decline for an extended period, while others may develop multiple symptoms quickly. Understanding the seven stages of dementia can make these transitions a little easier for your loved one and you as their caregiver. Alma And Silvias StoryAlma had been forgetful for years, but even after her family knew that Alzheimers disease was the cause of her forgetfulness, they never talked about what the future would bring. As time passed and the disease eroded Almas memory and ability to think and speak, she became less and less able to share her concerns and wishes with those close to her. This made it hard for her daughter Silvia to know what Alma needed or wanted. When the doctors asked about feeding tubes or antibiotics to treat pneumonia, Silvia didnt know how to best reflect her mothers wishes. Her decisions had to be based on what she knew about her moms values, rather than on what Alma actually said she wanted. Quality of life is an important issue when making healthcare decisions for people with dementia. For example, medicines are available that may delay or keep symptoms from becoming worse for a little while. Medicines also may help control some behavioral symptoms in people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimers disease. However, some caregivers might not want drugs prescribed for people in the later stages of Alzheimers. They may believe that the persons quality of life is already so poor that the medicine is unlikely to make a difference. If the drug has serious side effects, they may be even more likely to decide against it. Read Also: Dementia Ribbon Colour Stage : Mild Cognitive DeclineStage 3 is where dementia or Alzheimers disease symptoms can become more noticeable to friends and family. This stage will not have a major impact on your loved ones everyday life, but signs can include:
Find Meaningful Memory Care For Your Loved One At Franciscan MinistriesAt Franciscan Ministries, we understand that caring for a loved one living with dementia is an emotional, demanding role. Thats why we offer specialized memory care for your loved one living with Alzheimers disease or another form of dementia. Our memory care community includes specially trained staff, structured and stimulating programming, and a safe, secure environment for your family member. And because every individual diagnosed with dementia will experience it in different ways, our memory care program is designed to provide personalized care that empowers a purposeful life. Contact us today to learn more about our memory care community and senior living options. You May Like: Does Bobby Knight Have Dementia Alzheimer Disease Begins Long Before The First SymptomsAlzheimers disease can begin a decade or more before the first symptoms. Despite a lack of outward evidence, toxic changes are happening in the brain. Researchers have identified a condition called mild cognitive impairment that in some but by no means all individuals may be the earliest indication of Alzheimers or another type of dementia. MCI involves lapses in memory, language, thinking, and judgment that are noticeable to the person and his family and close friends yet are not serious enough to interfere with everyday life. A meta-analysis published in the journal Acta Psychiatrica Scandanavica examined 41 studies and found that among people with MCI who were tracked for five years or longer, an average of 38 percent developed dementia. One of the highest priorities of Alzheimers research is understanding what happens inside the brain long before the first symptom. The hope is that these insights will lead to more effective treatments that slow or even prevent damage. After the onset of symptoms, the disease progresses through three main stages: mild , moderate , and severe . The Progression And Stages Of DementiaDementia is progressive. This means symptoms may be relatively mild at first but they get worse with time. Dementia affects everyone differently, however it can be helpful to think of dementia progressing in ‘three stages’.
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