What Are the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?
When it comes to Alzheimer’s, many people are unsure of what to expect. The disease progresses through different stages, each with its own unique set of challenges. Thankfully, there are senior living communities like Jasmine Estates of Oklahoma City that offer specialized Alzheimer’s care. Oklahoma City families can get expert help in navigating these difficult waters.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different stages of Alzheimer’s and how senior living communities can help your loved one during each one.
Early Stage
The first stage of Alzheimer’s is often referred to as the “pre-clinical” stage. During this time, individuals may begin to experience memory changes but they are not yet severe enough to cause noticeable problems in their everyday lives. For many people, this is the longest and most stable stage of the disease.
While symptoms and signs of Alzheimer’s might not be obvious during this stage, senior living communities can still provide support and assistance.
For example, our community offers social activities and events that help keep residents engaged and active. We also have a full-time staff of nurses and caregivers who can help with things like medications and transportation. Some common signs of early-stage Alzheimer’s are:
- Trouble with word-finding
- Misplacing or losing objects
- Trouble with remembering names
- Difficulty performing tasks in social or work settings
Middle Stage
The second or middle stage of Alzheimer’s is known as mild cognitive impairment (MCI). During this stage, individuals begin to experience more significant memory problems. They may have difficulty remembering recent events or conversations, and they may start to struggle with tasks that require planning and organization. Common signs of Alzheimer’s in this stage include:
- Behavioral changes like mood swings, suspiciousness, delusions, or withdrawing from social situations
- Forgetting personal history and details about their life
- Confusion about their whereabouts
- Sleep disturbances and changes in sleeping patterns
- Increased wandering
At Jasmine Estates, we understand the challenges that come with dementia and how to help your loved one manage them with Alzheimer’s care. Oklahoma City is home to many senior living communities, but none with our level of focus. That’s why we offer a variety of services and amenities to help our residents stay healthy and independent for as long as possible.
For example, our on-site wellness program offers exercise classes, health screenings, and other programs designed to promote physical and mental well-being. We also have a robust calendar of social and cultural events that help keep our residents engaged in the community. In addition, we keep the security of your loved one paramount with a 24/7 emergency response system and cameras throughout the community.
Late Stage
The third stage of Alzheimer’s is known as late-stage or severe. During this stage, individuals experience further decline in cognitive abilities and may have difficulty with basic self-care tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. They may become more agitated, aggressive, or withdrawn and may experience delusions. Individuals lose the ability to respond to their environment, carry on a conversation, and, eventually, control movement.
During this stage, individuals require round-the-clock care which is centered around keeping them comfortable. Seniors in this stage do benefit from interactions like reassuring touch and listening to calming music.
At Jasmine Estates of Oklahoma City, our specially-trained caregivers are well-versed in providing care at any stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Our team provides individualized care plans that take into account the unique needs of each resident. Our focus is on providing dignified care, comforting and engaging amenities, and reassurance to families that their loved one is in good hands.
If you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, know that you are not alone. Senior living communities like Jasmine Estates can provide the support and resources you need to navigate this difficult time. Contact us today to learn more about our community and how we can help your family.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time. There are three main stages of Alzheimer’s: pre-clinical, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and late-stage or severe. Each stage brings new challenges, but with the right support, individuals can still live fulfilling lives.
At Jasmine Estates of Oklahoma City, we understand the challenges that come with dementia and how to help your loved one manage them. That’s why we offer a variety of services and amenities to help our residents stay healthy and independent for as long as possible.
We’re here to support you and your loved one through this journey.
Learn more about our services and amenities by contacting us to set up a tour. We provide the kind of Alzheimer’s care Oklahoma City families can rely on.