Dementia, a complex group of symptoms, is a progressive condition that moves through several stages. In the earliest stages, it’s difficult to recognize, and in the later stages, a person with dementia will need professional care. But how can you tell what stage of dementia your loved one has?
The FAST scale (Functional Assessment Staging Test), is a valuable tool that determines the progression of your loved one’s dementia. It breaks dementia down into several distinct stages to make it easier to identify when your loved one needs help. With the FAST scale, you can get your loved one the care they need when it can make a true difference.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is an extremely complicated group of symptoms. It isn’t a single condition—there are several different types of dementia, each with its own characteristics and causes.
Dementia develops when cells in the brain are damaged, leading to a host of cognitive changes. The symptoms of dementia often include:
- Forgetfulness and memory loss
- Confusion and disorientation
- Behavioral changes
- Communication challenges
Dementia progresses at different rates for each person, but eventually, the symptoms worsen. This condition often causes a person to need around-the-clock care from memory care communities—specialized communities with experienced caregivers and care plans.
The FAST Scale for Dementia
The FAST scale, or Functional Assessment Staging Test, was created in 1982 by Dr. Barry Reisberg. This scale assesses the rate of dementia progression on a person’s functional abilities. The FAST scale is now used by caregivers and medical professionals alike to diagnose a person’s specific stage of dementia.
When used alongside other tests, like the GDS (Global Deterioration Scale, also known as the Reisberg test), the FAST scale helps medical professionals accurately determine a person’s abilities. This makes it much easier to tailor a care plan to meet their unique circumstances.
It’s important to note that the FAST scale primarily applies to Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. Though it can be used for other types of dementia and cognitive decline, it may not be entirely accurate.
The Stages of the FAST Scale for Dementia
This scale serves as a practical framework that divides dementia progression into 7 key stages. Each stage has different symptoms and notable changes in a person’s functional abilities.
Stage 1
In this initial stage, there are no noticeable symptoms of dementia. The condition has yet to damage the brain cells, so there is no cognitive or functional impairment. A person at this stage can continue their everyday routine without being affected by their condition.
Stage 2
At this stage, a person may experience mild forgetfulness, such as:
- Misplacing items
- Calling a person by the wrong name
- Using the wrong words
- Forgetting an appointment
These symptoms are easy to mistake for age-related forgetfulness. They gradually worsen, though they can be difficult to recognize at first.
A person at this stage may need some minor assistance with their everyday routine, but can remain mostly independent.
Stage 3
In this stage, cognitive changes become more noticeable. A person may:
- Have difficulty managing complex tasks or problem-solving
- Struggle to recall names of acquaintances
- Have subtle changes in work performance or social habits
- Occasionally love track of dates, times, or locations
A person at this stage may start needing additional support in certain areas of their life, although they can still perform basic activities independently.
Stage 4
At this stage, the signs of cognitive decline become clear. A person at this stage will have a decreased ability to perform tasks such as:
- Planning events
- Handling finances
- Shopping alone
A person at this stage will require assistance with most complex everyday tasks, but may retain some degree of independence with the basics of their routine.
Stage 5
At this stage, symptoms are clearly interfering with a person’s functional abilities. Memory lapses become more frequent, and they may forget personal details or have trouble recognizing familiar faces.
A person at this stage will require assistance with most everyday tasks, including dressing themselves and any complex planning.
Stage 6
At this stage, the symptoms of dementia impact almost every aspect of your loved one’s life. A person at this point may:
- Put on the wrong clothes
- Have difficulties bathing
- Be unable to use household items
- Experience health concerns
A person at this stage will require extensive care. In stage 6, professional care is essential for maintaining your loved one’s dignity and health.
Stage 7
A person at stage 7 on the FAST scale will need around-the-clock care to maintain their dignity and quality of life. At this stage, a person may:
- Struggle to verbally communicate
- Have a restricted vocabulary
- Have mobility problems
- Develop muscular problems
At stage 7, professional care is crucial to preserving dignity and respect.
How to Help a Loved One with Dementia
Dementia is a complex condition. However, tools like the FAST scale make it much easier to determine how to help. By identifying the difficulties and symptoms caused by your loved one’s dementia, our team at Somerby Mobile can step in to provide the care they deserve.
In our community, we know the value of professional support, and we’re here to help your family. Contact our team today to schedule a visit—we’re here for you.
