By : Lamiaa Moustafa Elbosaty
Alzheimer's disease is classified according to the stage of the degenerative process. The number of stages defined ranges from three to seven, depending on the source. However, four stages, as discussed subsequently, are commonly to categorize the progressive deterioration seen in those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (Varcarolis, 2006).
· Very Mild Alzheimer's Disease: At this stage, cognitive changes is subtle, typically this stage of the disease is only detected by dementia specialists because of the very mild nature of the changes. Individuals may dismiss these very mild changes as normal aging (National Institute on Aging, 2007).
Memory is consistently impaired, and details of recent events are only partially recalled. Although the individual may be fully oriented, there may be difficulty with time relationships, knowing when events happen in relation to one another. The family/individual may note slight impairment in community activities or slight change in interest or participation in hobbies. Complex tasks take longer and errors are evident. The working individual may continue to work but will require support to function at the same level or will assume decreased responsibility (Galvin et al., 2005).
Personality changes such as lack of spontaneity and initiative, loss of a previously sharp sense of humor, lack of energy and enthusiasm, or decreased interest in work, family may be noted at this stage. Anxiety and depression are not uncommon at this stage and should be treated. The duration of the disease from onset to death a mostly average 8 to 10 years, but can range from 3 to 10 years (Duchek et al., 2003).
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