Intermediate Stage Dementia | Living with and Caring for

The period between symptoms becomes more clear Compared with early-stage Alzheimer's, care is more difficult.

They may need more help with everyday tasks such as remembering or refusing to bathe, or dressing inappropriately for the weather. This is also often the longest stage of the condition. 

At this stage, some daily activities may become a burden for the person with the disease. For family caregivers, the middle stage may mark the beginning of demands personal care frequent.

Managing Mid-Stage Alzheimer's Symptoms

Specific symptoms at each stage of the disease vary from person to person. However, here is an overview of some of the symptoms you may experience:

Memory loss

They may forget the names of familiar objects, forget to recognize family, friends…

As a family member, this can be difficult. However, there are ways to help caregivers cope with these difficult situations – 

• Keep calm – it is important to remember that this is not intentional and respond in a calm voice, with a gentle correction and explanation. 
• Use visual aids to remind of relationships, such as using photos, letters, or sentimental items, such as wedding rings, keepsakes.

Mood changes and behavior changes

People with dementia have more than just memory problems. Changes in mood and behaviour include becoming agitated and unable to keep still, shouting. Or repeating certain actions or asking the same questions over and over again. What carers can do to help include:

• Rate their safety: If they cannot calm down or act aggressively, it is time to consult a professional.
• Determine what the cause could be: Try to identify the underlying issues that are causing the mood swings – rule out needs like hunger, thirst or pain.

• Focus on their feelings – How do they act? What is their body language like? Does this match what they are saying? 
• Attract them through activities and hobbies to change their thinking. 
• Avoid controversy: You should not express disagreement in an exaggerated way.

Experience the illusion 

Delusions can occur when a person is unable to control or 'regulate' intense thoughts. These beliefs are often based on very little evidence/unfounded suspicion. 

They may also begin to experience hallucinations – seeing, hearing, smelling or feeling things that are not there. Many people find hallucinations disturbing or frightening, however, smelling a familiar perfume or hearing the caring voice of a deceased loved one can actually be comforting to someone with dementia. 

• If a loved one is accusing you or someone else of something, try to figure out what might make them think that way – encourage them to share my thoughts 
• Remember that the hallucinations are very real to them, so don't try to correct them. Instead, offer words of comfort. reassure and acknowledge their feelings
• You should be receptive and find alternatives, or perhaps involve your loved ones in these changes to ensure they feel heard. 

Disoriented

Disorientation can be characterized by a feeling of mental confusion and loss of direction. Orientation problems can affect more than just their physical abilities. Things that can help support someone who is disoriented – 

• Encourage gentle exercise to strengthen the body and help with coordination 
• Keep a regular daily routine to help your child identify the time of day.
• Place signs around the house to help children find their way if they get lost or confused.