How many stages of Dementia are there?
There are several different types of Dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common. When it comes to the different stages of Dementia, we can typically categorise the trajectory of the disease as mild, moderate or severe.
Although this three-stage model is useful for providing an overview of the early, middle and final stages of Dementia, most people prefer a seven-stage model that breaks cognitive decline down into seven specific categories. The progression of Dementia will be different for everyone, but knowing where a loved one falls on this scale can help to identify signs and symptoms, whilst also determining the most appropriate care needs. So, what are the 7 stages of Dementia?
The 7 Stages of Dementia
Living with and understanding Dementia stages can be difficult. Here we offer a more clearly defined picture of the whole Dementia journey. What are the signs of Dementia to look out for in a loved one? And if you do spot these signals of Dementia, what actions can you take?
1. Normal Behaviour
In the early stages of Dementia, your loved one may experience no symptoms, though changes in the brain might already be occurring – these can happen several years before any Dementia signs or symptoms emerge.
2. Forgetfulness
In the early stages of Dementia, a person might forget things easily and constantly lose things around the house, although not to the point where the memory loss can easily be distinguished from normal age-related memory deterioration.
3. Mild Decline
As the progression of Dementia worsens, you may begin to notice subtle changes and signs that something ‘isn’t quite right.’ They might be frequently losing their purse, or keys or forgetting appointments. This stage can last up to seven years.
4. Moderate Decline
In these later stages of Dementia, the signs and symptoms become clearer to everyone. Your loved one may find it difficult to manage money, pay bills, or remember what they had for breakfast. If they visit their doctor at this point and undergo a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), it’s likely that they will be diagnosed with Dementia. The average length of this stage is around two years.
5. Moderately Severe Decline
A person may need more help with day-to-day living during these late stages of Dementia. Whilst they can probably still take care of other personal needs on their own (such as using the toilet), they could find it difficult to dress appropriately or be unable to remember simple facts about themselves, such as their address or phone number. However, they usually recognise family and friends and can recall events from years ago (especially their childhood) with great clarity. On average this stage can last around 1.5 years.
6. Severe Decline
When it comes to the final stages of Dementia, constant supervision is needed at home. They may need help with washing and dressing and may also become incontinent. You could notice changes in their personality and behaviour – such as anger and aggression – which can be upsetting and difficult to cope with. However, although they might be very confused, they often still know and recognise the people closest to them – which can bring some comfort. Experts believe this stage can last on average around 2.5 years.
7. Very Severe Decline
Many people pass away before they reach this final stage of Dementia, often as a result of other health conditions. At this stage, they’ll experience severe loss of speech, will need assistance with day-to-day living and feeding and may require around-the-clock care and the support of professional carers (if they haven’t already got this).
How Many Stages of Dementia are there?
Dementia unfolds in seven stages, portraying a nuanced progression of cognitive decline. Yet, its impact is often tenderly described in three stages—mild, moderate, and severe—reflecting the emotional terrain faced by a loved one. This gentle classification helps guide understanding and support.
Part of understanding Dementia is remembering that the person living with Dementia no longer understands what’s happening.
If some of this sounds like the behaviour of a relative and you’re looking for some support, get in touch with our team today. We’re more than happy to listen and talk things through with you and see how our live-in care finder service could make life easier for you and your loved one.
