When it comes to ageing and illness, there is no doubt that one of the cruellest illnesses a person can encounter in their senior years is dementia. Dementia is a disease that not only affects the primary sufferer, but also every friend and family member in their life, and unlike other illnesses, it can also be something that reveals itself over an extended period of years with unfortunate downward progression. Many families take comfort in knowing there are specialist dementia care homes in Somerset and across the country who can professionally assist families and their loved ones. However, it is helpful to be fully educated on the ways that this disease manifests in case you suspect a loved one or family member to be a potential sufferer. With that in mind, here is a brief rundown of the seven different stages of dementia to help you take steps to look after those closet to you.

Normal Behaviour

Perhaps most cruelly of all, the early stages of dementia are not easily noticeable because they don't have an immediate effect on a person. With no symptoms to notice, changes can start to occur in a dementia patient's brain year before any of the earliest signs.

Forgetfulness

The first thing that most people notice is a tendency of forgetfulness that is out of character. Walking around the house and forgetting why they have changed rooms, forgetting premade plans etc.

Mild Decline

Mild decline is a state that can last up to seven years, and this is the stage where the sufferer frequently loses things like a wallet or purse and forgetting important dates and key appointments.

Moderate Decline

Estimated to last around two years, moderate decline is the stage where it becomes difficult to do things like manage money, pay bills or even remember what has been eaten that day. The majority of people are usually officially diagnosed with dementia when they have reached this stage after going to a doctor and undergoing a Mini Mental State Examination (or MMSE).

Moderately Severe Decline

This is the stage in which a person starts to need help with day to day activities. They will be able to maintain basic hygiene and toileting on their own, but simple facts such as addresses and phone numbers will start to fade. During this year-long period, it is likely that family and friends will still be recognised to varying degrees.

Severe Decline

At this stage in the dementia journey, a person will require constant supervision at home or in a nursing home. They will need help with things like dressing and washing and may also lose their ability to use the bathroom independently. You may also notice changes in personality such as aggression and temper, and this can be very upsetting for both the patient and patient's loved ones. There is a chance that they will still know and recognise close loved ones, however.

Very Severe Decline

Many people will pass away before reaching this final stage of dementia, almost always as a result of other health conditions. This stage involves a loss of speech along with everything else that has already been mentioned above, and round the clock assistance by professional carers will be needed to ensure safety and comfort.

For more information about the symptoms and treatment of dementia please visit the NHS.