Understanding memory and thinking problems

Memory and thinking problems can be an early sign of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia due to early Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain condition that causes problems with memory, language, and thinking. Dementia is a term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that interfere with daily life.

Stages of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease progresses in stages. Recognizing the stage of the disease
is important because LEQEMBI is for people in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease, which
includes mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease.

What is the difference between MCI and mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease?

MCI causes slight memory and thinking changes that could be misunderstood as normal signs of aging. These changes include forgetting recent conversations or having trouble finding the right word.

Mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease causes memory and thinking problems that are more noticeable, such as forgetting familiar names or missing appointments.

Early stage
Alzheimer's disease

When symptoms, such as difficulty remembering names and completing tasks, are still manageable without much daily support.

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LEQEMBI may be right for
you if you’re in this stage.

Middle stage
Alzheimer's disease

When symptoms, such as getting lost and confusion, require more day-to-day support.

Late stage
Alzheimer's disease

When symptoms, such as personality changes and trouble moving around, require full-time care.

Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease

People in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease often may not recognize it right away because of how subtle the symptoms are.

Common signs of MCI and mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease may include:
Forgetfulness, such as forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events Confusion, like asking the same question repeatedly Trouble finding words, such as difficulty naming familiar objects
Poor judgment Misplacing items or putting them in unusual places Difficulty planning and problem-solving
Changes in personality Having a hard time completing familiar tasks Getting lost

People in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease often may not
recognize it right away because of how subtle the symptoms are.

Middle stage symptoms

LEQEMBI is not for people in this stage.

  • Worsening confusion, like not remembering where they are
  • Showing an increased tendency to get lost
  • Experiencing changes in mood
  • Showing noticeable personality changes
  • Increased memory loss, such as forgetting their
    own history

Late stage symptoms

LEQEMBI is not for people in this stage.

  • Can’t recall recent experiences or their surroundings
  • Physical abilities like walking or sitting get worse
  • Difficulty communicating at all
  • Vulnerable to infections like pneumonia 

This is not a complete list of symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Only a healthcare provider can diagnose Alzheimer's disease.

Chris and his wife, Jannet
Chris and his wife, Jannet
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DOYLE

LEQEMBI PATIENT SINCE 2023

People shown were compensated for their time, and information is accurate as of February 2026. Quotes reflect personal experiences, which may vary.