Phases of Alzheimer's Disease

Experts have found that most Alzheimer’s patients go through seven stages of disease progression. The duration and symptoms might vary, but the general decline of Alzheimer's remains the same.


1. No Impairment

Individuals at this stage show no marked decline in their cognitive function. No memory problems show up on a regular basis.

2. Very Mild Impairment

Forgetfulness begins. The patient begins to forget names and small details, like where they put their glasses or if they took their medication that morning.

3. Mild Decline

At this point, family and friends begin to notice the symptoms. Losing things is more common, and the patient might begin having performance issues at work.

4. Moderate Decline

The problems are now clear in medical interviews. The patient begins forgetting personal history, recent events, and how to handle complex tasks, such as planning dinner or paying bills. They could begin acting withdrawn or subdued in social situations.

5. Moderately Severe Decline

While the patient may remember their own name and the names of those important to them, they begin to forget basic information, such as the current date, time, or season. Day-to-day tasks like cooking may no longer be safe.

6. Severe Decline

Now, the patient needs more help with basic activities like dressing and using the toilet. They might also experience behavioral changes, such as feeling suspicious or experiencing hallucinations. Someone at this stage might engage in repetitive behaviors or wander away, only to become confused and lost.

7. Very Severe Decline

In this final stage, the patient may lose the ability to speak coherently. They may need help with general hygiene, and may eventually lose muscle coordination and the ability to control movement. Their muscles typically grow rigid, the reflexes become unpredictable, and eventually even swallowing could become impaired.


Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be exhausting and frustrating, but you don’t have to go it alone. There are many services that can help, such as adult day care and in-home care services.