It can be confusing not knowing what to look for when your loved one shows possible symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, especially because it can affect everyone differently. Some people may not have every symptom, while for others, their symptoms may occur at different times. Since Alzheimer's disease can last as long as 20 years, it can be helpful to look at it in terms of stages. Knowing the stages can help give you a general idea of what to expect and how to provide care.
Unfortunately, mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease may bring about changes in your family member's overall functioning. Scroll down to find information about the changes you might expect at the mild and moderate stages of Alzheimer's disease and some suggested steps you can take to cope with these changes.
Mild Stage Alzheimer's Disease
Most people at this stage can still manage many of their daily activities themselves, but they may need some assistance or support to stay organized.
Possible Changes:
- Having trouble carrying out tasks that require multiple steps, like following a recipe
- Getting lost, even in familiar places
- Having difficulty performing some household chores
- Avoiding social situations
- Having trouble remembering appointments, people's names, or things that happened recently
Steps the Caregiver Can Take:
- Ask a trusted friend or family member to help manage your loved one's money
- Write reminders to your loved one in the same place, such as a calendar or notepad, to look at often
- Keep a list near the telephone of the names and telephone numbers of family and friends, along with their photos
- Put labels or pictures on cabinets, drawers, and closets so that things can be found easily
- Encourage your loved one to talk about his or her feelings with friends, family, clergy, or other professionals
- Consider enrolling your loved one in adult education, recreation, or fitness classes to stay physically and mentally alive
Moderate Stage Alzheimer's Disease
People at this stage may have more trouble taking care of themselves, but they can still be involved in their daily care and follow a comfortable routine.
Possible Changes:
- Needing help to take a bath or shower, choose clothing, or get dressed
- Needing help setting a table or getting out of a chair
- Developing sloppy table manners
- Feeling restless or wandering, especially in the late afternoon or evening
- Getting suspicious, angry, or easily upset
- Having trouble recognizing family members
- Having difficulty expressing oneself and understanding others
Steps the Caregiver Can Take:
- Encourage your loved one to stay involved in things he or she enjoys doing, even if for shorter periods of time
- Help your loved one share his or her memories with family members by telling stories or creating a scrapbook
- Speak calmly and clearly – show what you mean as you say it by making sure you have your loved one's attention
- Plan for exercise and other physical activity during the day to promote sleep at night
- Research community resources to provide help, such as home healthcare agencies or adult day centers
