About Level Four Alzheimer's

An individual afflicted with Alzheimer's disease will pass through several stages of progression. Most experts label seven stages or levels of the disease beginning with no symptoms at all and progressing to the severest symptoms including difficulty walking and often an inability to interact with other people at all. The early Alzheimer's stage is considered level four. This is when an individual begins to experience moderate cognitive impairments.

Features

• There are several characteristics defining level-four Alzheimer's disease. Individuals with early Alzheimer's disease begin to see a decline in many of their cognitive skills. Cognitive challenges can lead to difficulty handling personal finances or finances for an individual's company or employer. Duties involving careful planning can prove frustrating for someone with level-four Alzheimer's. Another common feature of level four Alzheimer's is an individual not being able to recall people with whom they have become recently acquainted or to recall details of recent events. Individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's typically begin to have trouble remembering some details from their past.

Significance

• Stage-four Alzheimer's will have a significant impact on an individual's life. They are facing a progressive disease that can eventually take their ability to function independently. Even in stage four, which is the mild and early phase of Alzheimer's, patients can see significant changes in their lives. Someone with Alzheimer's might make mistakes or experience difficulty when balancing a checkbook or paying bills. Preparing a holiday, planning a birthday party or performing other moderate to difficult tasks can become frustrating and difficult for an individual within the fourth stage of Alzheimer's. Memories can begin to fade in this stage as well.

Prevention/Solution

• Alzheimer's disease is a disease without a cure and without complete prevention. However, a healthy lifestyle might help to prevent Alzheimer's. Individuals who have lived a healthy life might see a slower progression of the disease if they are affected with Alzheimer's at some point in life. Everyone should work toward preventing Alzheimer's throughout life by staying physically active and fit was well as eating a well-balanced diet. Having strong social interactions also might help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. Individuals should continue to explore the world and learn new things at every stage of life. Keeping a mind active is just as important in the potential prevention of Alzheimer's as keeping the body active.

Warning

• If you believe that a loved one is showing signs or symptoms of the onset of Alzheimer's disease, consult with a physician. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's, there are potential treatments to help slow the progression of the disease. It also is important to make certain that an individual is suffering from Alzheimer's and not from depression. Some symptoms of Alzheimer's can mirror signs of depression. Examples include individuals being withdrawn or showing a lack of interest in their favorite activities.

Considerations

• If you have loved ones with stage-four Alzheimer's, you might need to begin helping them with some tasks. Offer to provide assistance when they are working on financial tasks. You also can help a loved one to get where they need to go so that they do not need to drive. Individuals with Alzheimer's, even in the earliest stages, can sometimes get lost and confused when driving. Offer your help in a way that will not threaten independence of your loved ones. Remember, you will want to help your family members retain their dignity at all times.