Dementia Care
What Is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, affecting millions of families worldwide. This progressive brain disease causes a decline in memory, thinking skills, and behavior, eventually impacting a person's ability to carry out everyday activities. At Marjorie House, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care for individuals living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Our team has the expertise to support your loved one through every stage of their journey.
Understanding Alzheimer's: Causes, Symptoms, and Stages
The exact cause of Alzheimer's is not yet fully understood, but it's believed to be a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more noticeable. They often include significant memory loss, difficulty with planning and problem-solving, and changes in mood or personality.
The disease typically progresses through seven distinct stages. Understanding these stages can help you better support your loved one and know what to expect.
The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's Disease:
Stage 1: No Decline - The individual shows no outward symptoms. A diagnosis is not possible at this point.
Stage 2: Very Mild Decline - Subtle memory lapses may occur, such as misplacing objects. These changes are often dismissed as normal aging.
Stage 3: Mild Decline - Memory and concentration issues become more frequent and noticeable to close family members.
Stage 4: Moderate Decline - Symptoms become more apparent during a medical exam. Difficulty with complex tasks and misplacing things become more common.
Stage 5: Moderately Severe Decline - Significant confusion, an inability to recall personal details, and a need for help with daily activities emerge.
Stage 6: Severe Decline - Memory loss is extensive. Individuals may forget names of loved ones and friends and require substantial help with daily tasks like dressing and using the bathroom.
Stage 7: Very Severe Decline - The final stage of the disease, where the individual loses the ability to respond to their environment or communicate. They may lose the ability to swallow and control motor functions.
We invite you to reach out to us at Marjorie House to learn more. Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and provide the support you need.
Contact us.
admin@sdr.life
503.474.4222
Marjorie House Memory Care Community
2855 Northeast Cumulus Ave.
McMinnville, OR 97128