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; and 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.