Hey, it’s James Barrett here.
I’ve got something important to share today, and it’s not the easiest topic.
But let me start with a personal story.
Not too long ago, a close friend came to me, worried about their constant forgetfulness. This was someone who’d always been sharp as a tack—quick-witted, organized, never missing a beat.
But lately? Things were slipping, little by little. It started small… misplacing keys, forgetting names, and feeling foggy during conversations.
At first, it seemed like regular aging. We laughed it off, saying, “Oh, you’re just getting old!” But the truth is, deep down, I felt a pang of concern. I knew this was more than just the usual memory hiccups.
I’ve seen too many older folks start this same way… little slips that turn into bigger losses, until their once-brilliant minds fade away completely. And eventually, they pass on, their identities stolen by a disease that began as “just forgetfulness.”
Now, I have a question for you…
Have you noticed similar changes in yourself or someone close to you? Maybe it’s not just the occasional forgotten grocery item but an increasing struggle to remember details that once came easily.
It’s unsettling, isn’t it?
This is why I need to share the stages of dementia with you today. Because understanding the signs could mean the difference between catching it early and letting it quietly take over.
Dementia isn’t just a “forgetful old age” condition. It’s a progressive decline that can deeply affect how we live, connect, and even how we see ourselves. And often, it sneaks up so slowly that by the time we notice, it’s already taken root.
Stage 1: No Impairment
Here’s where it gets tricky. There’s no obvious sign of memory loss or cognitive decline at this stage. It’s a silent beginning, making it easy to assume all is well.
But the reality? Dementia often starts affecting the brain long before symptoms show up.
This is why staying proactive about brain health is crucial. Don’t wait until something feels off.
Stage 2: Very Mild Decline
You might see minor forgetfulness at this stage, like losing track of names or misplacing items more often. It’s easy to chalk this up to “normal aging,” but it’s worth paying attention if you’re noticing it more frequently.
After all, when was the last time you remembered every single thing on your to-do list?
Stage 3: Mild Decline
This is where things start to get noticeable… not just to you but to those around you.
Have you found yourself re-reading an email because you lost your train of thought? Or maybe you’ve started relying heavily on lists to keep track of your day.
It’s okay to feel a bit of anxiety here. This is a common stage for many, and catching it now can make a difference.
Stage 4: Moderate Decline
At this point, memory lapses become more pronounced, and daily life is affected. Following a conversation or remembering details becomes challenging.
This is when friends and family start seeing the changes, too. If you’re noticing this in a loved one, don’t brush it off. It’s time to take it seriously and start conversations about getting help.
Stage 5: Moderately Severe Decline
This stage feels heavy. Forgetting basic personal information, like phone numbers or home addresses, can be alarming. It’s not just frustrating for the person experiencing it—it’s heartbreaking for loved ones.
Imagine suddenly being unable to recall the name of your street or the faces of neighbors you’ve known for years. These moments remind us of the urgency of seeking care and support.
Stage 6: Severe Decline
By now, cognitive decline has become severe. There’s confusion about familiar surroundings, trouble with personal history, and the need for more consistent support. It’s not uncommon to see childlike behaviors resurface, like putting non-food items in their mouth, driven by sensory confusion or a need for comfort.
It’s a phase that can feel devastating, but it’s also a chance to lean into love, patience, and understanding… both for the person going through it and for those providing care.
Stage 7: Very Severe Decline
This final stage is truly heartbreaking. It brings complete dependency—loss of speech, movement, and even swallowing. It’s painful to witness as the person fades away, often leading to death as the body shuts down.
As devastating as it is, understanding what’s ahead can help ensure their final days are filled with dignity, compassion, and peace.
If you’ve noticed any of these stages in yourself or someone you love, don’t just brush it off—take action. Reach out to a healthcare professional, schedule a cognitive screening, and prioritize brain health.
Remember, early intervention could be the difference between slowing down dementia’s impact or letting it quietly take over. It’s not about fearing the future. It’s about preparing for it with strength, knowledge, and hope.
