- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:13 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions globally with rising incidence in India due to the country’s ageing population. The condition gradually impairs memory, thinking and behaviour and while it can be managed to some extent, there is currently no cure. This not only impacts patients' ability to lead independent lives but also places significant emotional and physical strain on their families and caregivers. Understanding the stages of Alzheimer’s is vital for recognising symptoms early, providing the best possible care and allowing families to prepare for the challenges ahead.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. V. P. Singh, Chairman, Neurosurgery, Neurosciences, Medanta, Gurugram explained the stages of Alzheimer's disease and the importance of its early detection.
Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Preclinical Stage
In the preclinical stage, changes in the brain begin long before any noticeable symptoms appear. This phase can last for years during which amyloid plaques and other signs of Alzheimer’s develop silently. Despite these brain changes, the person remains asymptomatic with no impact on daily functioning.
Mild, Early Stage
The mild or early stage is often characterised by subtle memory problems and difficulty concentrating, which may initially seem like normal ageing. During this phase, individuals might still live independently but begin to experience challenges in remembering names or recent events, keeping track of personal belongings and planning and organizing daily tasks
However, the difficulty in staying organized or recalling specific information may become more apparent.
Moderate, Middle Stage
The moderate or middle stage is usually the longest phase of Alzheimer's and can span several years. Common symptoms include increasing difficulty remembering recent events, trouble learning new information and struggling to plan and execute more complex tasks, like organizing a family gathering or managing household chores. At this stage, people may require assistance with day-to-day activities such as dressing, grooming or selecting appropriate clothing. Mood and personality changes such as irritability, agitation, paranoia, or hallucinations are also common.
Severe, Late Stage
The severe or late stage of Alzheimer’s is marked by a significant decline in both mental and physical abilities. People in this stage require full-time care as they lose the capacity to manage their basic needs. Symptoms include loss of physical abilities such as walking, sitting or eating, loss of bladder and bowel control, limited ability to communicate and inability to recognize recent experiences or surroundings. In this stage, individuals are no longer aware of their surroundings or able to participate in conversations.
Severe Alzheimer's Disease
The final stage of Alzheimer’s is marked by severe cognitive decline. Individuals lose the ability to communicate, recognise loved ones, or carry out basic self-care tasks. Physical decline often accompanies cognitive deterioration, and individuals may become bedridden, requiring round-the-clock care.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is critical to improving outcomes for patients. While there is no cure for the condition, early diagnosis allows for interventions that can slow disease progression, enhance quality of life, and help families prepare for the challenges ahead.
In India, raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and its early signs is essential to encourage earlier diagnosis. The use of cognitive assessments, imaging techniques, and biomarkers is still limited, and increasing access to these diagnostic tools could significantly improve early detection rates. As the ageing population grows, addressing the rising burden of Alzheimer’s will require concerted efforts from healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public alike.