The 7 stages of Alzheimer’s disease: a clear guide (2026)

In short: Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia are commonly described in 7 stages using the Global Deterioration Scale (GDS). The stages map the slow progression from normal cognition through mild, moderate and severe dementia.

The 7 stages of Alzheimer’s disease

Stage	What happens
Stage 1 — No decline	Normal function; no memory problems on examination.
Stage 2 — Very mild decline	Occasional forgetfulness (names, where items were placed) typical of normal ageing; not detectable clinically.
Stage 3 — Mild decline	Noticeable to family: word-finding, repeating questions, losing objects, reduced work performance. Often the point of an MCI diagnosis.
Stage 4 — Moderate decline (early dementia)	Clear difficulty with finances, planning and complex tasks; reduced memory of recent events. Diagnosis is usually clear here.
Stage 5 — Moderately severe	Help needed with daily activities; trouble recalling address, phone number or the date. Still recognises family.
Stage 6 — Severe (middle dementia)	Help required with dressing, toileting and eating; personality and behavioural changes; may not recognise faces and needs constant supervision.
Stage 7 — Very severe (late dementia)	Loss of speech and movement; full-time care needed for all activities.

Source: Reisberg B et al., Global Deterioration Scale (GDS). Staging by a clinician with cognitive testing. Staging is a clinical assessment — only a qualified specialist can stage your condition.

Where stem-cell therapy fits

Conventional, stage-appropriate treatment is the foundation for Alzheimer’s disease. Stem-cell therapy is investigational for this condition — not an approved cure. For an honest, sourced look at the evidence, cost and open trials, see stem cell therapy for Alzheimer's Disease and what the success-rate data really shows.

Alzheimer’s disease stages — common questions

How many stages of Alzheimer’s disease are there?

Alzheimer’s disease is typically described in 7 stages using the Global Deterioration Scale (Reisberg, 7 stages). The stages chart how the condition progresses; the pace varies a lot between individuals.

What is the final stage of Alzheimer’s disease?

The most advanced stage is “Very severe (late dementia)” — Loss of speech and movement; full-time care needed for all activities.

Can stem cell therapy help with Alzheimer’s disease?

Stem-cell therapy for Alzheimer's Disease is investigational, not an approved cure — see our honest, sourced overview of stem cell therapy for Alzheimer's Disease (evidence, cost and trials) before considering it.