EARLY (Mild)
In this stage people may:
- Forget words or misplace objects
- Forget something they just read
- Ask the same question over and over
- Have increasing trouble making plans or organizing
- Not remember names when meeting new people
MIDDLE (Moderate)
In this stage, people may have:
- Increased memory loss and confusion
- Problems recognizing family and friends
- Continuously repeating stories, favorite wants (e.g., foods, places, songs, etc.), or motions
- Decreased ability to perform complex tasks (e.g., planning dinner) or handle personal finances (e.g., paying bills)
- Lack of concern for hygiene and appearance
- Requiring assistance in choosing proper clothing to wear for day, season, or occasion
LATE (Severe)
In this stage, there is almost total memory loss. The individual may:
- Recognize faces but forget names
- Mistake a person for someone else
- Delusions—such as thinking he/she needs to go to work — may set in, even though he/she no longer has a job
- There is a strong need for holding something close for tactile stimulation, nurturing, companionship and comfort
- Basic abilities such as eating, walking, and sitting up fade during this period; the individual may no longer recognize when he is thirsty or hungry and will need help with all basic activities of daily living.