stage of Alzheimer's disease can help caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals
provide the necessary support and care. This guide explores the seven stages of Alzheimer's
progression and the key symptoms to watch for at each stage.
Stage 1: No Impairment
Overview: In the first stage, individuals exhibit no noticeable symptoms of cognitive decline. They
function normally, and Alzheimer's disease is typically undetectable through medical evaluations.
However, changes in the brain may begin to occur at a microscopic level.
Symptoms:
 No noticeable memory problems.
 No issues with daily activities or cognitive function.
 Normal performance on cognitive tests.
Stage 2: Very Mild Cognitive Decline
Overview: During the second stage, individuals may experience very mild cognitive changes that are
often mistaken for normal aging. These changes are subtle and may not be apparent to friends and
family.
Symptoms:
 Occasional forgetfulness, such as misplacing items.
 Slight difficulty finding the right words.
 No significant impact on work or social activities.
Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline
Overview: In stage three, cognitive impairments become more noticeable and may start to interfere
with everyday activities. This stage is often referred to as mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Symptoms:
 Increased forgetfulness and repetition of questions.
 Difficulty concentrating and taking longer to complete tasks.
 Problems remembering names of new acquaintances.
 Challenges with planning and organizing, such as managing finances.
Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline
Overview: Stage four marks the onset of early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Memory and cognitive
problems become more pronounced, affecting the individual's ability to function independently.
Symptoms:
 Significant short-term memory loss, such as forgetting recent events or personal history.
 Difficulty performing routine tasks, such as cooking or shopping.
 Trouble managing personal finances and paying bills.
 Withdrawal from social situations due to awareness of cognitive decline.

Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline
Overview: At stage five, individuals experience moderately severe cognitive decline, also known as
mid-stage Alzheimer's disease. Memory loss and confusion become more severe, and assistance
with daily activities is often required.
Symptoms:
 Inability to recall important personal details, such as address or phone number.
 Difficulty dressing appropriately for the weather or occasion.
 Increased confusion about time, place, and personal information.
 Dependence on others for help with basic daily tasks, such as grooming and bathing.
Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline
Overview: Stage six is characterized by severe cognitive decline, where individuals require extensive
assistance with daily activities. The disease significantly impacts memory, personality, and behavior,
and full-time care is often necessary.
Symptoms:
 Severe memory loss, including the inability to recognize close family members.
 Extensive help needed for daily tasks, such as eating and using the bathroom.
 Behavioral changes, such as agitation, aggression, and delusions.
 Increased risk of wandering and getting lost.
Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline
Overview: The final stage of Alzheimer's disease, stage seven, is marked by very severe cognitive
decline. Individuals lose the ability to communicate and perform basic functions, and they require
round-the-clock care. The body's systems gradually shut down, leading to a decline in physical
health.
Symptoms:
 Loss of speech and ability to communicate effectively.
 Inability to perform basic movements, such as walking or sitting up.
 Difficulty swallowing and eating, leading to weight loss and malnutrition.
 Total dependence on caregivers for all aspects of daily care.
Conclusion
Spotting the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease at each stage is crucial for providing timely and
appropriate care. Each stage presents unique challenges and requires different levels of support.
Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for
individuals with Alzheimer's. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, ongoing
research and advances in medical care offer hope for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. By
staying informed and proactive, we can better support those affected by Alzheimer's and work
towards a brighter future for all. If you notice any signs of cognitive decline in yourself or a loved
one, don't hesitate to seek medical advice and explore available resources and support.