Doctors believe that Alzheimer's disease progresses in stages. Stage I is characterized by a loss of interest in things once enjoyed, trouble naming common objects, repetitiveness, forgetfulness and personality changes. It is usually mild, and patients can still enjoy many aspects of life and some freedom of movement. They may easily become overly emotional or temperamental. Stage II is the longest lasting and can include symptoms like confusion about recent events, getting lost in familiar surroundings, difficulty dressing and hallucinations.
Some patients become argumentative, depressed or anxious.
Some kind of home care may be necessary in the later phases of this stage. In Stage III, which usually lasts from one to three years, patients lose their use of language, and they may not recognize themselves or close family members. They are extremely confused, suffer from delusions, hallucinations and paranoia, and are incapable of caring for themselves. Eventually, the disease will cause death by impairing vital functions like breathing, eating and swallowing. Currently, the ultimate prognosis for Alzheimer's patients is not good, although there are ways to combat the disease and at least hold it at bay for a time.