Individuals progress through the stages of dementia at different rates. Onset is often subtle; however, there will generally be a continuous and progressive decline. As the disease progresses, the individual will become more dependent and require more direct supervision.
- Realizes something is wrong but cannot change it — they will hide or cover up the problem
- Loss of recent memory (short term memory)
- Mild confusion, unable to concentrate, or short attention span
- Mild communication problems
- Impaired judgment, makes poor decisions
- Personality and behavior changes
- Depression
- Loses interest in people or activities
- Pays less attention to grooming and hygiene
- Delusions
Sources
Lake Region State College. “Training for Caregivers of Individuals with Dementia.” North Dakota Department of Human Services Aging Services Division, Jan. 2006, www.silverstonegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sample-training-caregivers-of-individuals-with-dementia.pdf.
