A Guide to Alzheimer’s: Symptoms, Support, and Care Tips

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder that affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide. While the experience of Alzheimer’s varies from person to person, the disease generally follows a predictable course that unfolds over several stages. Understanding these stages can help patients, caregivers, and loved ones better navigate the journey, manage expectations, and access appropriate care and support.

The Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, characterized by the gradual decline of memory, cognitive function, and life skills. The exact cause is not fully understood, but factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle, and environment all play a role. Though there is currently no cure, a variety of treatments and interventions can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

The Stages of Alzheimer’s

Experts typically describe Alzheimer’s disease in three broad stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). Some frameworks break it down further into seven stages, but for most patients and families, thinking in terms of early, middle, and late is most helpful.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia before it escalates empowers both the individual and their family to discuss important legal, financial, and medical decisions. 

“Being knowledgeable about symptoms that can occur from Alzheimer’s, such as behavioral changes, can allow loved ones to anticipate minor changes before they become more problematic. It’s best to be proactive rather than reactive,” said Audrey Sanders, DO, Trinity Health Medical Group, Neurology, and Interim Medical Director, Memory Disorders Clinic.

1. Early Stage (Mild Alzheimer’s)

In the early stage, individuals may still function independently. They may drive, work, and maintain social activities but start to experience memory lapses that are more frequent or noticeable.

Common symptoms:

• Difficulty recalling recent events or conversations
• Misplacing items more often
• Trouble finding the right words
• Mild difficulties with problem-solving or planning
• Increased anxiety or irritability

Family members or close friends may be the first to notice these subtle changes. A thorough medical evaluation can help rule out other causes of memory issues and lead to an early diagnosis, which is crucial for planning and treatment.

“It’s important to note that normal aging can affect a person’s processing speed in remembering information, but not necessarily other cognitive abilities. Typical age-related changes can include forgetting what day it is (but being able to remember the day later) or misplacing items from time to time,” said Dr. Sanders.

She adds, “The early signs of Alzheimer’s disease can include more consistent memory loss, such as forgetting conversations or losing track of the date or season. This can affect one’s judgment and decision-making capacity.”

Treatment options in the early stage:

• Medications may help support cognitive function.
• Lifestyle modifications, including regular physical activity, social engagement, cognitive exercises, and a heart-healthy diet.
• Support groups and counseling to help patients and families adjust emotionally.

2. Middle Stage (Moderate Alzheimer’s)

The middle stage is often the longest and can last for several years. During this phase, cognitive decline becomes more noticeable and may interfere with daily tasks.

Common symptoms:

• Increased confusion and memory loss
• Difficulty recognizing loved ones
• Problems with language and communication
• Trouble with complex tasks like managing finances or medications
• Changes in behavior, such as agitation, depression, or paranoia
• Sleep disturbances
• Wandering or getting lost

Care needs typically increase during this stage. Many families begin to explore in-home care, day programs, or assisted living facilities that offer specialized dementia care.

Treatment options in the middle stage:

• Continuation of medications that may help manage symptoms.
• Antidepressants, antipsychotics, or sleep aids may be prescribed for behavioral symptoms (under careful supervision).
• Structured daily routines and safety modifications at home.

3. Late Stage (Severe Alzheimer’s)

In the late stage, individuals typically lose the ability to respond to their environment, carry on conversations, and control movement. Around-the-clock care is usually required.

Common symptoms:

• Severe memory loss and cognitive decline
• Loss of verbal communication abilities
• Difficulty swallowing and eating
• Significant mobility issues
• Vulnerability to infections, such as pneumonia

At this point, care focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Hospice or palliative care may be appropriate to address pain management, nutritional needs, and emotional support for both the patient and family.

For information on other memory disorders, read Memory Loss Outside of Alzheimer’s.

Hope on the Horizon: Advances in Research

Though there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, researchers continue to make progress in understanding the disease and developing new treatments. Recently, new FDA-approved drugs such as lecanemab (Leqembi) have shown promise in slowing cognitive decline in the early stages. Last June, Trinity Health Grand Rapids began offering this treatment.

Supporting Caregivers

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally, physically, and financially demanding. It’s important for caregivers to seek support, take breaks, and prioritize their own health.

For Alzheimer’s and dementia support, the following organizations provide accessible resources:

• Alzheimer’s Association

• National Institute of Aging

• Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan

Dr. Sanders and Susan Woolner, Neuro Patient and Caregiver Support Coordinator, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, spoke with Shelley Irwin, host of Family Health Matters on WGVU Public Media, about memory disorders and what patients and caregivers need to know. Watch the video. 

Alzheimer’s disease affects not just individuals, but entire families and communities. By understanding the stages and available treatment options, loved ones can better prepare, advocate, and support each other through this difficult journey. While there is still much to learn, ongoing research and growing supportive care resources offer hope and help along the way.

Learn more about Trinity Health Michigan Memory Disorders programs and services.