The different types of dementia have different signs and symptoms. The following stages are typical of Alzheimer’s Disease:
Early Stage:
– forget recent conversations & events
– repeat themselves
– slower at grasping new ideas
– lose the thread of conversation
– sometimes become confused
– show poor judgement, find it harder to make decisions
– lose interest in other people or activities
– develop a readiness to blame others for taking mislaid items
– become unwilling to try out new things or adapt to change.
At this stage a lot can be done to help, encourage independence as much as possible, write things on a calendar and keep a diary. The person may become anxious or agitated and also become distressed over failure to do things.
Middle Stage:
– confused about where they are, wander off and get lost
– mix up day & night
– put self or others at risk due to forgetfulness i.e leave gas on
– behave unusually i.e going out in nightie
– difficulties with perception/hallucinations
At this stage the person will be requiring more support and assistance, they may become angry and aggressive due to frustration, they may also lose a lot of confidence.
Late Stage:
– difficulty eating, may have problems swallowing
– weight loss
– incontinence
– gradual loss of speech
At this stage the person will be considerably more dependent, they may also become increasingly distressed and aggressive.