Scientists say it will be several years before a drug to treat or prevent AD will come out of this new information. In contrast to some other forms of dementia, AD symptoms occur gradually, although the rate can be different from person to person. There are four stages of Alzheimer's disease. Stage one is forgetfulness, in which short-term memory loss begins to affect job performance and the individual shows less energy and spontaneity. The person may forget which bills are paid or pay the same ones more than once and may have difficulty driving.
Care involves simplifying routines and ensuring a safe environment.
Stage two is confusion. Attention span shortens, and more assistance is needed with activities. The person may forget to bathe or become careless with money. Care should focus on structure, limiting choices and frequent reminders. Stage three is disorientation and involves problems with logical thinking and finding the right words.