Evidence-based resources empowering caregivers, families, and communities navigating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By Dr. Sherry L. Perry, PhD — Social & I/O Psychologist
7.2M
Americans with Alzheimer's (2025)
12M+
Unpaid caregivers in the U.S.
$413B
Value of unpaid caregiving annually
Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
Select a stage to learn what to expect.
Stage 1 — No Impairment (Preclinical)
No noticeable symptoms. Brain changes may already be occurring at a cellular level. This stage can last years or even decades before any signs appear.
Stage 2 — Very Mild Decline
Minor memory lapses that may seem like normal age-related forgetfulness — misplacing keys, forgetting familiar names. Not yet detectable during medical examinations.
Stage 3 — Mild Decline (Early Stage)
Friends and family begin to notice difficulties. Problems with word-finding, planning, organizing, and remembering names of new acquaintances.
Stage 4 — Moderate Decline (Early Dementia)
Clear cognitive deficits emerge. Difficulty with arithmetic, managing finances, forgetting personal history. The individual may become withdrawn in social situations. Typically lasts about two years.
Stage 5 — Moderately Severe Decline (Mid-Stage)
Significant memory and cognitive gaps. Assistance needed for many daily activities, though they can generally still eat and use the toilet independently. Confusion about time and place is common.
Stage 6 — Severe Decline (Mid-to-Late Stage)
Memory declines significantly. Personality and behavior changes become pronounced. Extensive help needed for daily activities. May not recognize familiar faces.
Stage 7 — Very Severe Decline (Late Stage)
The final stage. Loss of ability to respond to the environment or carry on conversation. Total care is needed. The body's systems gradually shut down.
Health Disparities in Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease disproportionately impacts communities of color.
2×
Black Americans
Approximately twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's or other dementias compared to non-Hispanic White Americans, driven by cardiovascular risk factors, systemic healthcare inequities, and underrepresentation in clinical research.
1.5×
Hispanic Americans
About 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer's, compounded by higher diabetes prevalence, language barriers, cultural stigma, and limited access to culturally appropriate resources.
Barriers to Diagnosis
Fewer specialists in underserved communities, cognitive tests that lack cultural validation, and symptoms dismissed as "normal aging" all delay timely diagnosis and treatment for communities of color.
Caregiving Disparities
Caregivers of color are more likely to provide high-intensity care, less likely to use formal support services, and face higher rates of burnout and financial strain.
Understanding Sundowning
Increased confusion and agitation that occurs in late afternoon and evening. Select a topic to learn more.
Increased confusion and disorientation
Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
Pacing, wandering, or attempting to leave
Mood swings, irritability, or crying
Suspicion or paranoia
Difficulty sleeping or reversed sleep cycles
Shadowing — following a caregiver closely
Disruption to the body's circadian rhythm
Fatigue and overstimulation from the day
Reduced lighting causing shadows and visual confusion
Unmet needs: hunger, pain, or toileting
Hormonal changes affecting melatonin production
Medication side effects or timing issues
Maintain a consistent daily routine
Increase lighting in late afternoon hours
Limit caffeine and sugar after noon
Encourage light physical activity earlier in the day
Play soothing music or engage in calming activities
Use nightlights to reduce shadows
Consult a physician if symptoms are severe
Stay calm — your demeanor affects your loved one
Speak in a gentle, reassuring tone
Avoid arguing or reasoning during episodes
Reduce noise and activity in the evening
Offer a favorite snack or warm caffeine-free drink
Keep a log of triggers to identify patterns
Ask family members to help cover evening shifts
Coping Strategies for Caregivers
You cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is essential.
💛 Emotional Well-Being
Acknowledge feelings — grief and frustration are normal
Join a caregiver support group
Practice mindfulness or deep breathing
Celebrate small victories and connections
🏃 Physical Health
Maintain regular medical check-ups for yourself
Prioritize sleep — even short naps help
Exercise regularly, even a 20-minute daily walk
Ask for and accept help with physical tasks
📋 Practical Planning
Create a daily care routine with rest breaks
Organize medical, legal, and financial documents early
Research respite care and adult day programs
Use technology: medication reminders, GPS trackers
🤝 Support Network
Be specific when asking for help
Connect with your local Area Agency on Aging
Consider hiring a professional caregiver for relief
24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
Resources & Support
Trusted organizations and services to support you on this journey.
Click any medication to learn more. Always consult a physician before changes.
Type: Cholinesterase Inhibitor
Prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical important for memory and learning.
Type: Cholinesterase Inhibitor
Blocks enzymes that break down acetylcholine. Available as a patch or capsule.
Type: Cholinesterase Inhibitor
Enhances acetylcholine activity and modulates nicotinic receptors in the brain.
Type: NMDA Receptor Antagonist
Regulates glutamate activity to protect brain cells from excess stimulation.
Type: Combination Therapy
Combines the benefits of both a cholinesterase inhibitor and NMDA receptor antagonist.
Type: Anti-Amyloid Antibody
Targets and removes amyloid beta plaques to slow disease progression. Requires regular MRI monitoring.
Type: Anti-Amyloid Antibody
Targets a modified form of amyloid plaque. May allow patients to discontinue after plaque clearance.
Glossary of Terms
Click any term to see its definition.
A neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning. Alzheimer's disease reduces acetylcholine levels in the brain.
The inability to recognize objects, people, sounds, or shapes despite having normally functioning senses.
Abnormal protein deposits (beta-amyloid) that accumulate between nerve cells — a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
Difficulty with language — including speaking, understanding, reading, or writing — caused by brain damage.
The inability to perform learned motor tasks, such as brushing teeth, despite having the physical ability.
A measurable indicator used to detect or track the progression of a disease.
A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that occurs when caregivers do not get sufficient help or support.
The brain's resilience and ability to compensate for damage, often built through education, occupation, and social engagement.
An umbrella term for symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life.
Referring to the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, leading to conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Temporary care provided for a person with a chronic illness, giving their primary caregiver time to rest.
A pattern of increased confusion, agitation, and behavioral changes in the late afternoon and evening.
Twisted fibers of tau protein inside dying brain cells — another hallmark of Alzheimer's that disrupts cell transport.
The second most common form of dementia, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often following a stroke.
Blog & Insights
Articles and reflections from Dr. Sherry L. Perry on caregiving, research, and community resilience.
March 2025
Why Alzheimer's Hits the Black Community Harder — And What We Can Do
Exploring the complex interplay of genetics, cardiovascular risk, socioeconomic factors, and systemic racism that drives disparities — and the community-led solutions making a difference.
February 2025
The Caregiver's Silent Struggle: Recognizing Burnout Before It's Too Late
More than 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for loved ones with Alzheimer's. Learn to recognize the warning signs of burnout and protect your own well-being.
January 2025
New Hope: Understanding Lecanemab, Donanemab, and the Future of Treatment
For the first time, FDA-approved therapies can slow the progression of early-stage Alzheimer's. Learn how anti-amyloid antibodies work and what these breakthroughs mean.
Teaching Videos
Educational video content by Dr. Sherry L. Perry, PhD — supporting caregivers and families at every stage.
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Coming Soon
Understanding the Diagnosis
Navigating emotions, next steps, and building a care team after a loved one receives an Alzheimer's diagnosis.
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Coming Soon
Dealing with Behavioral Changes
Strategies for responding to agitation, wandering, repetitive questions, and other common behavioral symptoms.
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Coming Soon
Self-Care for Caregivers
Techniques for managing stress, preventing burnout, and maintaining your own physical and emotional health.
Products & Resources
Tools designed by Dr. Perry to empower caregivers and families navigating dementia.
Available Now
Dementia & Alzheimer's Caregiver OS
Stage-by-stage roadmaps, daily routines, behavioral frameworks, and caregiver wellness tools.
