Dementia stage checker
This dementia stage checker is a simple checklist to organize what you are noticing and see which general stage it most resembles, before you talk with the doctor.
This free checklist lists 12 everyday observations about memory, daily tasks, mood and communication. Tick what you see, and it shows whether your answers most resemble the early, middle or late stage as described by the Alzheimer’s Association, plus the kind of support that usually helps. It is not a diagnosis; only a doctor can assess dementia.
Please read first: this is not a diagnosis
This checklist cannot tell you whether someone has dementia, what type, or what stage. Only a doctor can evaluate that, and other conditions such as infections, medication side effects, depression, thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies can cause similar symptoms. Use this as a way to organize what you have noticed before you talk with your loved one’s doctor.
Observation checklist
The statements below are our own plain-language descriptions, written to reflect the general early, middle and late stages described by the Alzheimer’s Association. They are not taken from any clinical scale.
How the dementia stage checker works
Each statement is linked to one of the three stages. People in later stages usually still show earlier signs, so the checker looks for the most advanced stage where you ticked at least two statements (or one in each of the two later stages). If you tick only one or two boxes, treat the result as an especially rough guide. Nothing you tick is saved or sent anywhere.
The three stages in brief
Early (mild)
Many people still live independently, drive and socialize. Family often notices word-finding trouble, forgotten names and harder planning before the person does. A good time to make legal and financial plans together.
Middle (moderate)
Usually the longest stage, often lasting many years. More confusion, mood and behavior changes, sleep disruption and a tendency to wander. Daily tasks still possible with help and simplification.
Late (severe)
Around-the-clock care is needed. Speech becomes limited, walking and swallowing get harder, and the focus shifts to comfort and dignity. Music and gentle touch can still bring calm.
The Alzheimer’s Association notes that stages overlap and that progression varies a great deal from person to person. On average, people live four to eight years after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, though some live as long as 20. Our full guide, navigating the journey through the stages of dementia, goes into more depth.
What to do with your result
- Write down examples. Doctors find specific examples more useful than labels: “She left the stove on twice last week” says more than “she’s forgetful.” The printable care log helps.
- Book a doctor visit. Ask whether a referral to a neurologist, geriatrician or one of Florida’s Memory Disorder Clinics makes sense.
Then plan around what you found:
- Look for sudden changes. Confusion that comes on over hours or days needs prompt medical attention. Read spotting infections and delirium.
- Match support to the stage. Early on, that might be a few engagement visits a week; in the middle stage, regular respite for the caregiver; later, a companion alongside hospice.
Specific conditions progress in different ways. See our pages on Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia and vascular dementia, and the glossary entry on mild cognitive impairment.
Support that fits the stage you’re in
Tell us what you’re seeing and get 3-5 matched companion profiles within 48 hours. $35/hour for 40+ hours a week, adjust anytime.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions?
Talk it through with us. A free call about your family's situation, with no obligation.
Call (689) 333-6079Send us a message- Screened for dementia care experience
- Florida ADRD training before the first visit
How many stages of dementia are there?
The Alzheimer’s Association describes three broad stages: early (mild), middle (moderate) and late (severe). Some clinical scales split progression into more stages, but the three-stage view is the most common way families talk about it.
Which stage of dementia lasts the longest?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the middle stage is typically the longest and can last many years.
Can someone be in two stages at once?
Yes. Stages overlap, and a person can show signs from more than one stage, or have good and bad days. That is why this checker gives a general picture, not a label.
Does this work for Lewy body or frontotemporal dementia?
Those conditions often follow a different pattern. For example, behavior or movement changes can come early. Use the result loosely and ask the doctor about the specific diagnosis.
Is my information saved?
No. The checklist runs entirely in your browser and nothing is sent or stored.
Don't see your question? Call (689) 333-6079 or send us a message.