Although each person experiences Alzheimer’s disease uniquely, the disease typically progresses through three main stages, and each stage brings with it different challenges to address in order to provide the best level of care. Understanding these stages, and where a senior falls within the continuum, can help in delivering the most appropriate therapeutic approach.
THE MEDICAL TEAM’s Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care team offers these details on what to expect in each stage, and suggests appropriate activities to help seniors reach their highest potential.
Stage 1 (Mild): In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, mild forgetfulness and misplacing items is common. It can become challenging for the senior to recall names of new acquaintances, to plan out tasks, and to remember recently learned information. Repetitive speech may also occur.
Recommended Activities:
- Enjoying music together
- Reminiscing/talking with friends and family
- Doing puzzles, or playing trivia and memory games
Stage 2 (Moderate): During this stage, memory issues are magnified, such as forgetting information about themselves, the current date, season, time and location. There may be confusion around clothing choices, hygiene, meals, and more. Sleeping patterns may change, and assistance may be needed with starting and continuing tasks.
Recommended Activities:
- Repetitive tasks, such as folding laundry or sorting items
- Listening to stories
- Activities that provide comfort and tactile stimulation, such as with stuffed animals or dolls
Stage 3 (Severe): In the final stage, memory loss has continued to progress, and significant assistance is needed with meeting basic needs, such as eating, dressing, bathing, and ambulation.
Recommended Activities:
- Aromatherapy and other sensory activities
- Companionship
- Listening to favorite music from the past
The challenges of providing care for a senior with Alzheimer’s disease can be mitigated by partnering with professional caregivers who are trained and experienced in each stage of the disease, such as those at THE MEDICAL TEAM. Our skilled, patient, and compassionate care team understands the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, and allows family caregivers the opportunity to take much-needed time for themselves while knowing their loved one is receiving the very best possible care.
We invite you to contact us with any questions about Alzheimer’s disease care, or to arrange for specialized in-home dementia care services. Our services are available throughout New Orleans, Detroit, Austin, Dallas and metro DC. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.
