What they need at different stages
ALZHEIMER’S is a progressive, irreversible and degenerative disease of the brain that results in impaired functionality and memory loss. The affected brain cells will cause gradual loss of ability to perform even the simplest daily activities.
The rate of progression of Alzheimer’s varies greatly from one person to another and can cause one to eventually lead a life of complete dependence. Since the symptoms varies as the disease progresses, it is imperative to understand the different stages to provide proper care for a person with Alzheimer’s.
Below are the symptoms that manifest during different stages of the disease:
Early stage – The disease is difficult to diagnose at this stage because the symptoms are similar to normal signs of ageing, such as misplacing and losing things and short-term memory loss. The person affected is still capable of leading a normal life and is usually aware of the symptoms. Sometimes, this awareness causes depression, which can quicken the progression of the disease.
Middle stage – Memory lapses become more pronounced, with short-term memory more affected than long-term memory. There is also the occasional confusion regarding time, places and people, which can lead to activity impairment.
Many patients in this stage are in denial of their symptoms, causing them anxiety and depression. Confabulation to cover up the occasional memory lapse is also common. The symptoms are more pronounced when one is ill, stressed or fatigued.
Late stage – At this stage, there is an almost complete loss of functionality, with the patient unable and unwilling to perform everyday tasks such as bathing, going to the bathroom or dressing herself. She will also stop communicating because of loss of vocabulary and ability to think, reason or plan.
She may feel growing frustration because of these challenges and become more withdrawn. However, depression usually resolves on its own at this stage because of the patient’s decrease in situational awareness of her situation.
Long-term memory loss also sets in at this stage, leaving the patient unable to recognise even loved ones. Most of the time, she will be unable to recall information and may become agitated and combative because of it. At this stage, behaviour is mostly guided by past experience rather than sense.
Advanced stage – A patient at this stage will become completely withdrawn from his surroundings and not recognise anyone. There is complete loss of speech and total inability to perform any task. Brain function is hampered so much that the person cannot even remember to chew or swallow their food. As a result, rapid weight loss and incontinence is common.
He will also be unable to walk; this immobility leading to other health problems such as bed sores and contracture. He may also become aggressive, occasionally yelling or screaming to communicate his frustration.
As a caregiver, it is important for you to understand that a person with Alzheimer’s disease is helpless in dealing with or controlling themselves, especially in the later stages.
Thus, although it is bound to get more difficult as the disease progresses and you feel that nothing can adequately prepare you for the challenges it brings, you can at least learn to recognise the symptoms when they appear and provide the patient with the appropriate care.