MILD

There are few signs of mental or cognitive problems. Individuals may commonly forget the names of friends, characters on TV programs and ingredients in a familiar recipe. They may misplace day-to-day items (e.g., glasses and keys) and have difficulty coming up with the right word during a conversation. These problems may be joined by strong denial (e.g., lost items may be blamed on theft), and they can also lead to erratic and exaggerated moods and behaviors.

At this stage, the symptoms may not be apparent to others, especially if the individual is compensating by keeping lists, staying in familiar territory and avoiding new situations.

MODERATE

Cognitive impairment becomes evident, along with the continued loss of short-term memory. This leads to a loss of intellect and reasoning. Individuals may struggle with more complex tasks like keeping accurate records (e.g., checkbook). They may become apathetic and get lost in familiar situations (e.g., going to the bathroom). There may be disorientation to time and place (e.g., forget what season it is and dress inappropriately). Sleep cycles become abnormal and individuals can become easily agitated. Moods are more exaggerated and can range from serene to hostile. It's common to wander and pace.

At this stage, the symptoms become very apparent to family and other loved ones.

SEVERE

By now the individual has lost much of his/her personality. Memory loss is severe and the impairments of the first two stages increase. They may lose their ability to speak or repeat the same words/phrases over and over. There is confusion (e.g., may not know their loved ones or recognize themselves in a mirror). Hallucinations, paranoia and delusions are all possible in this stage. They may lose weight, even while eating well. Around the clock care is necessary (can't dress themselves, loss of control over bodily functions, etc.). Eventually, they have difficulty walking and even sitting up. As the illness continues to advance, the individual becomes totally bedridden.