Understand Dementia Stages

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Dementia Care: Understanding Dementia Stages

As we age, our memory is not always as sharp as it was in our younger years. This is normal. Of course, with the focus that has been placed on dementia in recent years, and the extreme problems associated with a dementia diagnosis, it is understandable why any slip in cognitive functioning could result in a panic. It is important to understand that not every "senior moment" is a sign of Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. The greatest different between age-related memory issues and dementia is the degree to which it impacts daily life.

Researchers have classified the stages of dementia to make it easier to discuss the levels of impairment associated with the varies diseases grouped under the dementia umbrella. According to the National Institute of Health, the stages are part of the Clinical …show more content…
This is the stage at which we all want to remain. Even if there are occasional lapses in memory, thought, or reasoning, there are no significant problems that affect daily life, overall functioning, or the ability for independent self-care.

Stage 2: Questionable Impairment. If you had to have a progressive CDR rating, you would want it to be at this stage. At stage two (CDR .5) the overall memory is unaffected with occasional lapses, and judgements are still sound. Personal care is not impacted, but challenging problems may cause frustration there might be issues at work or with social activities involving more complex thoughts and quick decisions.

Stage 3: Mild Impairment. This is the stage where most people are identified as having a noticeable impairment. The level of short-term memory loss challenges the completion of daily tasks. Directions, time, and overall geography may cause problems at this stage. There may be problems in getting from point A to point B or even remembering how to get home. Personal hygiene habits and housework may be forgotten or overlooked and medications may be
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