Of the estimated 5 million Americans who have Alzheimer's disease, more than 7 in 10 live at home, primarily cared for by family and friends. "Alzheimer's Disease: The Dignity Within: A Handbook for Caregivers, Family, and Friends" was written in a workbook format aimed at increasing the caregiver's knowledge of the disease. As a result, these caregivers - whether family members, friends or health professionals - will be better equipped to nurture the dignity within people living with Alzheimer's and feel more confident doing so. The book is a tool for caregivers that will impact not only the way they relate to persons with Alzheimer's disease, but other relationships as well.

It contains information on how to take care of a person with Alzheimer's disease by mapping out each stage of the disease and showing what can be done from a caregiving standpoint at these various stages. In addition, the book discusses how important it is for caregivers to take care of themselves. It educates readers with easy-to-understand charts and sketches on what physically happens to the brain during the progression of Alzheimer's. Its five sections focus on the nature of Alzheimer's disease and on being a caregiver, covering topics such as tips for caregivers; challenges and solutions; changes in the brain that are responsible for the problems associated with the disease; and much, much more.

However, the most important tenet of the book is that we can better care for people with Alzheimer's by recognizing and nurturing the essence within a person living through the different stages of the disease. Both caregivers and people affected by Alzheimer's can live with a sense of dignity, importance, and self-esteem.

The United States Congress has designated the 1990s as the "Decade of the Brain" in recognition of the major importance of neurology and the other neurosciences in the health and well-being of Americans. It has been suggested that as many as 20% of all patients seeking medical treatment have neurologic problems, either as the presenting complaint or as an associated condition complicating the primary illness. Thus, it is fitting that Springer-Verlag should acknowledge the prominence of this medical specialty area by devoting an entire volume of the Oklahoma Notes series to neurology and clinical neuroscience. Of course, this text is an outline overview and does not attempt to provide ency clopedic coverage of neurology (the student desiring a comprehensive review of the field may wish to seek in the library the 60 + volumes in the series Handbook of Clinical Neurology edited by Pierre J. Vinken and George W. Bruyn). However, the information selected for inclusion in this volume of the Oklahoma Notes series remains true to the goal of the whole series-only materials vital in both the general clinical practice of medicine and to answer questions on the all-important United States Medical Licensing Examination have been incorporated in the text. Roger A. Brumback, M.D.

An estimated 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. That number continues to grow - by 2050 the number of individuals with Alzheimer's could range from 11.3 million to 16 million. Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. It is a devastating disorder of the brain's nerve cells that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior. Written for patients, their families, and caregivers, "A Caregiver's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease: 300 Tips for Making Life Easier" will help readers understand what is physically happening to the brain so they can empower their own special skills and talents throughout the disease process. The book is divided into three sections that correspond to the progression of Alzheimer's and the unique challenges encountered at each stage.

Section A: The major part of the book divides the progression of the disease into Stages: the Pre-Clinical Stage; Early-To-Mild Stage, which marks the onset of the disease; Moderate Stage; and the Severe Stage. Hundreds of practical tips geared to coping and compensating at each level of the disease provide support for the affected individual and the caregiver.

Section B: A bonus section of questions and answers addresses specific issues caregivers face and give them points to reflect on as they continue the process. Key topics covered include: Legal and financial issues Family Forums in the caregiving processThe role of medication at various stages of the disease Helping children understand what is happening to a loved one Handling the holidays and celebrationsMaking the living environment more stimulating and enjoyable

Section C: Lists resources and suggests websites to find additional information about the disease itself as well as related valuable networks.

With an abundance of pointers and guidelines for affected individuals, their families, friends and caregivers, "A Caregiver's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease: 300 Tips for Making Life Easier " is essential for all readers who want to focus on the capabilities that remain instead of those that have been lost.

A good mind knows the right answers...but a great mind knows the right questions. And never are the 10 Best Questions(TM) more important than after the life-altering diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

Drawing on cutting-edge research and advice given by experts from the Alzheimer's Association, Mayo Clinic, and UCLA's Memory Clinic and Center for Aging -- as well as personal stories from caretakers, including television star and activist Linda Dano and nationally syndicated columnist Harriet Cole -- "The 10 Best Questions(TM) for Living with Alzheimer's" is a guide you'll take with you to your doctor's office and keep close at hand as your loved one progresses from the initial diagnosis through all the stages of the disease. In addition to the medical questions, you'll also learn what you need to ask your spouse or parent; questions to assess home safety issues, driving skills, and home care; and how to care for your own emotional, legal, and financial health.

With a wealth of resources and up-to-the-minute information, "The 10 Best Questions(TM) for Living with Alzheimer's" shows you and your family how to move past a scary diagnosis and use the power of questions to become your own best health advocate -- for yourself and for your loved one.