Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that progressively affects language, memory, comprehension, attention, judgement, and reasoning. It is the most common form of dementia among older adults over the age of 65.
Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease and Their Symptoms
Some organisations stage Alzheimer’s disease as mild/early, moderate/middle, and severe/late.
Stage | Symptoms |
Pre-clinical Alzheimer’s disease (lasts for several years or more) |
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Mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease (the stage between normal ageing and early-stage dementia) |
|
Mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease |
|
Moderate dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (the longest stage and can last for years) |
Note: Individuals with moderate dementia tend to require care and assistance, especially with grooming and using the bathroom. |
Severe dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease |
Note: Individuals in this stage require extensive care. |
Risk Factors of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease occurs due to the abnormal accumulation of proteins in the brain, causing brain cells to die.
Suspected risk factors of developing Alzheimer’s disease include older age, being a woman, family history, co-morbidities (cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity), lifestyle factors (sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption), head injury, and having depression / anxiety.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s Disease
Your physician will conduct a thorough physical and neurological examination, mental status examination, blood and urine tests, and brain imaging scans such as computerised tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to support the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and rule out other possible conditions.
There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Medications such as cholinesterase and NMDA inhibitors are prescribed to delay the progression of dementia and help with behavioural symptoms.
Managing an Alzheimer’s Patient
Managing behavioural symptoms is important for Alzheimer’s patients.
- Maintain a familiar and neat environment for them.
- Avoid confrontation and redirect their attention if they are feeling agitated.
- Use clearly written instructions or reminders for daily tasks can be put in the living space to help patients remind themselves of what they need to do.
- Help them to stay physically active for both physical and mental benefits.
- Join a support group to share experiences, ideas, and provide emotional support for one another.
Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease
Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease can develop at 45 years old on average in certain individuals with family history (genetic factor).
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease over 65 years old typically pass away four to eight years after diagnosis. Some may live up to 20 years after showing early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and they usually pass away due to infections (especially lung infections), malnutrition, and dehydration.
Practicing a healthy lifestyle is the key to guard the brain from cognitive decline. Stay physically, mentally, and socially active, eat healthy, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.
Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you have questions about Alzheimer’s disease, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Geriatric Care Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.
