An estimated 4 million people are living with Alzheimer's Disease (AD)
in America today, with approximately 370,000 new cases diagnosed every
year. AD patients live anywhere from 5 to 20 years after their
diagnosis; and their inability to care for themselves grows more
dramatic as the disease progresses, creating profound implications for
their families and healthcare providers. Its impact on families during
the caregiving years is overwhelming.
If you have a family member or close friend who's suffering from
Alzheimer's Disease and you're looking for current, useful information,
then Alzheimer's For Dummies is for you. This reference guide also is
helpful if you
- Need to know more about its diagnosis and treatment
- Want to take care of yourself while taking care of your loved one
- Are not the primary caregiver but want to know how to help
- Want to know how Alzheimer's Disease is going to affect you and your
loved one
Alzheimer's For Dummies takes a realistic look at Alzheimer's Disease,
what it is and what it isn't. It offers pertinent, easy-to-understand
advice for dealing with the myriad concerns and responsibilities that a
primary caregiver must assume when managing an Alzheimer's patient.
Here's a sampling of the information you'll find in this valuable guide:
- Maneuvering through medical, legal, and financial tangles
- Distinguishing AD from other brain diseases and medical conditions
- Handling the fears that may accompany the diagnosis
- Evaluating current drug therapies; watching out for scams and quack
treatments
- Finding the best doctors; dealing with attorneys and CPAs
- Looking at Medicare regulations
- Evaluating the cost of care
- The current state of research, diagnosis, and treatment
Television personality Leeza Gibbons, whose mother was stricken with AD,
writes in the foreword of this book, "There is no upside to keeping your
head in the sand. This book is a crucial step in your new fight. Arm
yourself with the knowledge waiting for you in these pages. It will help
you find answers and resources as you adjust to your new reality."