How dementia progresses

Find out more about the way dementia progresses, including what to expect at different stages of the condition.

All types of dementia are progressive. This means that the structure and chemistry of the brain become increasingly damaged over time. 

How quickly dementia progresses depends on the individual. Each person is unique and experiences dementia in their own way. This can depend on many factors, including physical make-up, emotional resilience and the support available to them.

Viewing dementia as a series of stages can be a useful way to understand the illness, but it is important to realise that this only provides a rough guide to the progress of the condition.