From Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease dementia to frontotemporal dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies, different types of dementia have different signs and symptoms and affect brain cells differently.
If you’re like many who are new to memory loss, we want to help you understand the basics. To begin, we’re covering Lewy body dementia.
What Is Lewy Body Dementia?
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is one of the most common forms of dementia. According to an article by the National Institute on Aging, it affects over 1 million individuals in the United States. Most often, it affects men more than women, and mainly those over 50. However, it can occur in those who are younger.
This progressive brain disease comes from “abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein,” according to the article by the National Institute on Aging. These deposits, called Lewy bodies, affect chemicals in the brain, causing:
- Problems with thinking
- Slowed movement
- Changes in behavior and mood
This disease can last many years. For some, it lasts five to eight years from the time of diagnosis, but for others, it can range from two to 20 years. During this time, those affected face many different stages, and unfortunately, there is no cure.
The 7 Stages of Lewy Body Dementia
The seven stages of LBD are determined by the amount of cognitive change faced. Learn more about these stages, their symptoms, and what you could experience below.
Stage 1 | No Cognitive Change
In the early stages of LBD, there are often no changes. Those with the disease are able to carry on with daily life as they had before. In fact, people with LBD may not even realize they have it unless scans are done that detect it. If it is detected, an earlier diagnosis can help to slow the progression through available treatments.
Stage 2 | Very Mild Cognitive Decline
During this stage, those with the disease may barely notice symptoms. They may, however, begin to experience some slight signs of dementia, including:
- Forgetfulness
- Inability to locate familiar objects
- Issues remembering names
During this stage, a diagnosis is not likely to be reached.
Stage 3 | Mild Cognitive Decline
Stage 3 is when mild cognitive decline begins, and it becomes detectable. Most often, a diagnosis is near; though, most with LBD do not get diagnosed until Stage 4. Some common symptoms of this stage include:
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty concentrating
- A higher risk of falls
These symptoms may make daily activities difficult and can begin affecting certain aspects of life, like work.
Stage 4 | Moderate Cognitive Decline | Diagnosis
An official diagnosis of Lewy body dementia often occurs during Stage 4. Symptoms that are noted include:
- Extreme forgetfulness
- Difficulty performing daily tasks and responsibilities
- Issues navigating new locations
- Problems keeping track of finances
- Difficulty swallowing
- High risk of falls
- Need for constant supervision
Stage 5 | Moderately Severe Memory Loss
Severe symptoms tend to begin around Stage 5. This marks the need for a lot of support with daily activities. At this stage, those with Lewy body dementia will experience:
- Memory loss
- Constant confusion
- High risk of infections
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Paranoia
- Difficulty eating
- Problems recalling past events
- Bladder issues
- Frequently changing moods
Stage 6 | Severe Cognitive Decline
Stage 6 brings about severe dementia. Those in this stage:
- Need a high level of support
- Deal with significant memory loss
- Experience incontinence
- Could lose the ability to speak
- Have changes in their personality
- May not have any memories other than those of their early life
- Tend to wander or get lost
- May be unable to recognize family
Stage 7 | The Final Stage
The final stage of LBD lasts anywhere from 1.5 years to 2.5 years. During the final stages, symptoms experienced include:
- Inability to speak and communicate
- Inability to walk
- The need for around-the-clock support
- Complete loss of bladder/bowel control
- Inability to eat and swallow
When To Ask for Help
People often begin to ask for help when symptoms of Lewy body dementia become too difficult to manage on their own. However, it’s best to reach out soon after a diagnosis so you can receive resources and support.
Bridges® by EPOCH memory care communities have been developed from the ground up to anticipate, meet and exceed the needs of our residents and their families. Our team of remarkable people, the exceptional care and services we offer, and the purposeful design of our buildings all combine to create the most rewarding, secure and nurturing lifestyle possible for our residents.
Bridges® by EPOCH is here for you. If you, a family member or a caregiver would like more information on Lewy body dementia or Bridges® by EPOCH, we invite you contact the community nearest you.