What is the progression of Alzheimer’s disease like?

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, cognition, and daily living skills. As the disease advances, individuals experience a gradual decline in cognitive function and memory, leading to challenges in performing simple daily tasks.

Alzheimer's Stages

Alzheimer's disease typically progresses through three main stages:

1. Early Stage: In this stage, individuals may experience mild memory lapses and have difficulty remembering recent events or conversations.
2. Moderate Stage: Cognitive decline becomes more pronounced, leading to problems with language, reasoning, sensory processing, and motor skills.
3. Severe Stage: At this stage, individuals may lose the ability to communicate, recognize loved ones, perform basic tasks, and control their movements.

Symptoms and Challenges Faced

As Alzheimer's disease progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, mood swings, agitation, and aggression. Memory loss becomes more severe, affecting both short-term and long-term memory. Daily living skills, such as dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, become increasingly challenging.

Challenges faced by individuals include difficulty in maintaining relationships, managing finances, and navigating familiar environments. Caregivers play a crucial role in providing support and assistance as the disease advances.