a progressive neurological disorder. The disease is a form of dementia accounting for 50% of all dementia types.
Characterized by:
- personality changes
- memory loss
- cognitive decline
- decreased social processing
Although each person with Alzheimer’s is different, most progress through a series of stages, each of which is characterized by more serious Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Mild Stage (duration 2-4yrs)
- memory disturbance
- careless work habits
- still fine with familiar routines
Moderate Stage (duration 2-10yrs)
- more substantial loss of cognitive function
- changes with language
- paraphasias – use words in wrong context
- repetitive speech
- profound confusion
- changes in motor disturbance (use of hair brush etc)
- forgetfulness and indifference
- ADLs missing/ not occurring
Severe Terminal Stage
- all mental capabilities are lost
- decreased movement
- rigid flexor posturing
- incontinence
- no ability for self care
