Global Deterioration Scale

Some health-care professionals use the Global Deterioration Scale, also called the Reisberg Scale, to measure the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This scale divides Alzheimer's disease into seven stages of ability.

Stage 1: No cognitive decline

• Experiences no problems in daily living.

Stage 2: Very mild cognitive decline

• Forgets names and locations of objects.
• May have trouble finding words.

Stage 3: Mild cognitive decline

• Has difficulty travelling to new locations.
• Has difficulty handling problems at work.

Stage 4: Moderate cognitive decline

• Has difficulty with complex tasks (finances, shopping, planning dinner for guests).

Stage 5: Moderately severe cognitive decline

• Needs help to choose clothing.
• Needs prompting to bathe.

Stage 6: Severe cognitive decline

• Loss of awareness of recent events and experiences.
• Requires assistance bathing; may have a fear of bathing.
• Has decreased ability to use the toilet or is incontinent.

Stage 7: Very severe cognitive decline

• Vocabulary becomes limited, eventually declining to single words.
• Loses ability to walk and sit.
• Requires help with eating.

Reisberg, B., Ferris, S. H., de Leon, M. J., and Crook, T. (1982). Modified from Global Deterioration Scale. American Journal of Psychiatry, 139:1136–1139.