7-Stage Model (Global Deterioration Scale)

Developed by Dr. Barry Reisberg, this model provides a more nuanced breakdown:

  1. No impairment
  2. Very mild cognitive decline (forgetfulness)
  3. Mild cognitive decline (noticeable in demanding situations)
  4. Moderate decline (difficulty with arithmetic, finances, recent events)
  5. Moderately severe (help needed in daily activities)
  6. Severe decline (loss of awareness, behavioral symptoms, incontinence)
  7. Very severe decline (loss of motor skills, speech, swallowing).[6][7][1],