Providing tools and resources based on the latest research and expert-recommended interventions

Living with or caring for someone with memory or cognitive impairment comes with its own unique set of challenges. MemoryCare.com provides research-backed resources to guide caregivers and seniors in the early stages of memory impairment through the process of finding and obtaining the care they need.

MemoryCare.com provides the latest, expert-curated resources for caregivers and their loved ones.

MemoryCare.com uses a dual approach of data-driven research and first-hand knowledge from aging experts, medical researchers, and its board of advisors to help caregivers and those living with dementia find the tools and resources they need to achieve the best possible quality of life, while maintaining cognitive function.

For those that need extra help, MemoryCare.com’s team of experts and researches have worked together to curate a list of the best memory care facilities in cities around the nation.

Stages of Dementia

Watching a loved one progress through the stages of dementia is always difficult. MemoryCare.com provides resources that can make the process less stressful for caregivers and family members.

1. No Cognitive Decline
The first stage of dementia is actually no dementia- if someone is at this stage, they show no signs or symptoms of cognitive decline. Someone at this stage should focus on physical activity and a healthy diet to maintain overall health.
2. Very Mild Cognitive Decline
All seniors are likely to experience some cognitive decline, even if they do not go on to develop dementia. At this stage, loved ones and friends may not even notice a change in one’s cognitive functioning.
3. Mild Cognitive Decline
At this stage, individuals become more forgetful and may start getting lost more frequently or having difficulty concentrating. Caregivers may consider getting a medical alert device for their loved one at this point as a precaution and speaking to their loved one’s physician about their opinion on the situation and what’s to come. The rate at which memory and cognitive functioning decline is different for every person- this stage can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years.
4. Moderate Cognitive Decline
Moderate cognitive decline is the start of early-stage dementia. Completing complex tasks such as managing finances or traveling may no longer be doable, and the person may begin to withdraw socially. At this point, a physician will be able to officially diagnose the condition, and family members can begin making a plan for their loved one’s care.
5. Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline
Someone at this stage will have more severe memory loss, and may now require assistance with completing activities of daily living. Caregivers may need to assist or check in on their loved one more frequently. Family members may also hire an in-home aide and/or start looking into residential memory care facilities for their loved one.
6. Severe Cognitive Decline
Once someone reaches the sixth stage of dementia, referred to as middle dementia, they are likely to require extensive assistance with activities of daily living. Caregivers or an aide may need to provide full-time, in-home care, or the person can relocate to a residential care facility. Personality and emotional changes may also occur, making the transition to this stage difficult for caregivers and family members.
7. Very Severe Cognitive Decline
Those with late dementia lose their ability to function independently and will require around-the-clock assistance either in the home or at a residential care facility. Watching a loved one live with late-stage dementia can also be difficult for caregivers and family members, and support may be necessary.