Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior problems. The most common symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. (Alzheimer's Association, 2017)

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The Basics that you should know about Alzheimer's disease and other dementia. Please understand that Alzheimer's is not the normal process of aging, and that many people can experience memory loss issues, that does not mean they are suffering from this disease. And the greatest risk factor of AD, is increasing with age of the majority 65 years or older. However, in recent studies, over 200,000 Americans' currently suffer from Younger Onset Alzheimer's who are under the age of 65 (This will be discussed later in a blog).

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Stages of Alzheimer's:

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General there are 3 major stages: Mild (early-stage), Moderate (middle-stage), and Severe (Late-stage).

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1.) Mild (early-stage) - This is the first stage, with the person who may still function independently, and be able to drive, work and be part of social groups. Close friends and family of the individual will begin to notice difficulties.

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Signs of Difficulties:

• problems saying the right words or names

• trouble remembering names when introduced to new people

• challenges performing tasks in work or social settings

• forgetting materials that they have just read

• misplacing valuable items

• trouble planning or organizing

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2.) Moderate (middle-stage) - The longest stage and can last for many years, at this point the person can become very confused with words, become frustrated or angry, act in unexpected ways, such as refusing to bathe or change their clothes. 

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          For example: My grandmother was diagnosed in early 2002, and did not pass away until October of 2012. She lived 10 years with Alzheimer's disease.

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Signs of Difficulties:

• Forgetfulness of personal or event from their history

• Moody or withdrawn from social or challenging situations

• Unable to recall own address and/ or phone number

• Become confused about where they are or what day it is

• Needing help with choosing clothes for events or holidays

• Trouble with controlling their bladder or bowels

• Their sleeping patterns change, they may sleep in the day time and be restless at night

• An increase of wondering off or getting loss

• Their personal or behavioral changes happen, such as delusions, compulsiveness, or respective writing

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3.) Severe (late-stage) - This is the final stage, they lose the ability to respond to their own environment, or carry on a conversation, and eventually control of their movements. At this point, they need full time care, and many families turn to Home care provider services or place them in a nursing home facilities, where 24/7 care can be provided. 

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Signs of Difficulties:

• They need round the clock care with daily activities

• Are unaware of their surroundings

• Have increase difficulty communicating

• Become vulnerable to infections, especially to pneumonia

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