Dementia is a progressive condition, which means that your loved one’s care needs will evolve as the disease advances. And while dementia doesn’t follow an exact set of steps that happen in the same way for every person, many families find the “three stages” model helpful for anticipating changes and planning for future care.
If you’re wondering how your loved one’s needs may change, our memory care services at Provision are designed to help families like yours navigate dementia care every step of the way. Let’s take a closer look at the stages of dementia and what to expect.
What is dementia and how does it progress?
Dementia affects millions of people worldwide and becomes more common with age. It refers to the loss of cognitive abilities like thinking, remembering, reasoning, and decision-making to the point that it interferes with an individual’s daily life and activities. There are several types of dementia including:
- Alzheimer’s disease (which is the most common)
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Lewy Body dementia
- Vascular dementia
- Parkinson’s Disease dementia
The speed at which dementia progresses depends on a number of factors, including a person’s age, the type of dementia they have, and whether they suffer from other long-term health problems. Ultimately, though, there isn’t a precise way to predict how dementia may progress for each person.
Do dementia stages differ based on which type my loved one has?
In the early stages, each type of dementia impacts different areas of the brain, which is why symptoms vary among the various types. For example, while memory loss is often one of the first signs of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, it is not often seen in early-stage frontotemporal dementia.
As the condition progresses, symptoms across different types of dementia tend to become more similar, since more areas of the brain are affected. However, some symptoms may develop at one stage and then reduce or even disappear later on. A more in-depth breakdown of the stages of dementia can be found here.
Early-stage dementia: Symptoms and care
In the early stages of dementia, only limited areas of the brain are affected, so symptoms are usually mild and may include some memory lapses, slower cognitive processing, and language difficulties.
Most people remain relatively independent at this stage. Since cognitive facilities are still generally intact, this period is often the best time for families to plan for future care, including the possibility of memory care.
Middle-stage dementia: Symptoms and care
Middle-stage dementia tends to last the longest and brings more noticeable challenges. Memory and thinking become more compromised and behavior changes like confusion, hallucinations, or paranoia may appear.
At this point, individuals usually need more frequent reminders and assistance when it comes to managing daily tasks. As the condition gradually progresses over time, your loved one may require periodic increases in care.
Late-stage dementia: Symptoms and care
By the time your loved one enters late-stage dementia, which typically lasts one or two years, they will likely be experiencing severe cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms. These may include:
- Hallucinations
- Mood changes
- Mobility issues
- Falls
- Incontinence
At this stage, individuals usually need full-time support for personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and hygiene. Families may rely on dedicated caregivers, home care agencies, or memory care communities to provide the level of care needed.
When is the right time for memory care?
Sometimes the best way to help a loved one with dementia is by enlisting additional care. Whatever the stage, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, or if your loved one’s needs have become too complex to manage at home, a memory care community like Provision can provide the structure, safety, and specialized care your loved one deserves at every stage.
Provision’s memory care communities are carefully designed to meet the unique needs of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, offering 24/7 support, enriching activities that stimulate cognitive function, structured routines, and a safe environment. Our team members are trained in dementia care, so residents receive compassionate and respectful support that ensures they feel valued and understood.
Exploring memory care at Provision Living
Are you interested in learning more about dementia care at Provision? Start by speaking to one of our knowledgeable community advisors, and make sure to download our brochure for details on our living options and amenities, including memory care. When you’re ready, schedule a visit to see firsthand how our communities support residents and their families through every stage of dementia.
