The Different Phases of Dementia Explained
Dementia, a term used to describe various disorders causing progressive cognitive decline, affects many individuals worldwide. This condition is not a specific disease itself, but rather a group of symptoms that negatively impact memory, thinking, and social abilities.
Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, progresses through three main stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). In the early stage, patients may exhibit short-term memory loss, difficulty acquiring new information, subtle problems with attention, planning, and abstract thinking, and may experience apathy or depression.
As the disease progresses to the middle stage, symptoms become more pronounced. Patients may forget familiar people, exhibit confusion, mood and behavioural changes, and struggle with everyday tasks. Increased support is often required at this stage.
The late stage, or severe stage, is characterized by severe cognitive impairment. Patients may lose touch with reality, become vulnerable to life-threatening diseases like pneumonia and infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms, and may exhibit socially unacceptable behaviour and pose a physical threat to others. At this stage, the patient requires constant care and becomes fully dependent on the caregiver.
In addition to Alzheimer's disease, other forms of dementia include Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, and Frontotemporal Dementia.
Diagnosis of dementia involves a thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history, laboratory tests, physical examination, and psychiatric evaluation by respective medical professionals. If you suspect dementia in a family member, it is recommended to consult a geriatric psychiatrist, neuropsychologist, or geriatrician for a proper diagnosis.
Management of dementia focuses on symptom relief and support, as the disease is progressive and currently incurable. Early diagnosis allows for planning and intervention, including medications to help with cognitive symptoms, behavioural management strategies, and support services for patients and caregivers. In later stages, increased assistance with daily living and possible residential care are common to ensure safety and quality of life.
In some cases, doctors may recommend the use of physical restraint mitts and belts to prevent patients from injuring themselves or others due to their impaired motor skills.
Dementia is divided into six stages, categorized as Early (mild), Middle (moderate), and Last (severe). In the early stages, patients may lose focus and struggle with tasks like writing emails, reading books, managing finances, filling forms, etc. In the middle stages, a family member or professional caregiver may need to take over the responsibility for the well-being of the patient. In the final stage, the patient becomes fully dependent on the caregiver.
In Stage 2, symptoms are not yet visible to family members and co-workers, but the patient may feel puzzled about forgetting names and phone numbers of loved ones. In Stage 4, the disease grows and spreads, making basic activities such as operating a toaster, washing machine, or computer difficult for the patient. In the final stage (Stage 6), the patient is fully dependent on the caregiver due to severe cognitive decline and impairment in motor skills.
In conclusion, understanding the stages, symptoms, and management of dementia is crucial for early diagnosis, intervention, and support. If you suspect dementia in a loved one, seek professional help promptly to ensure the best possible care and quality of life.
[1] Alzheimer's Society. (2021). Stages of dementia. Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/stages-and-progression-of-the-condition [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Alzheimer's disease. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350007 [3] National Institute on Aging. (2021). Alzheimer's Disease: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-what-you-need-know [5] World Health Organization. (2021). Dementia. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
Mental health and health-and-wellness professionals play a significant role in identifying and managing dementia, a group of symptoms associated with progressive cognitive decline. Science, especially in the field of neuropharmacology, is continually researching new treatments for Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia. For instance, scientists are exploring the potential of anti-inflammatory drugs and its impact on slowing down the progression of dementia and improving mental health outcomes.
