The Dignity Within A Handbook for Caregivers, Family, and Friends Of the estimated 5 million Americans who have Alzheimer's disease, more than 70% live at home, with family and friends. Alzheimer's Disease: A Handbook for Caregivers, Family, and Friends is a unique resource for those caregivers so that they can be better equipped to nurture people living with Alzheimer's disease. This expert guide educates the reader on the physical changes in the brain as the disease progresses and outlines what can be done from a caregiver's standpoint at each stage. It stresses the importance of self-care in ensuring that you are prepared to support the person with Alzheimer's disease. Packed with tips and techniques from five authorities in the field, this book answers critical questions such as: What caregiving style will suit me best? What skills are likely to remain as Alzheimer's disease progresses? How do I balance my needs with the needs of the person I'm caring for? How do I find the time to rest and relax? When is it time to consider an assisted living community or a nursing home? And much more! The most important tenet of this book is that we can better care for people with Alzheimer's disease by recognizing the "essence within" a person living through the different stages of the disease. This positive approach will help both caregivers and people affected by Alzheimer's disease live with a sense of dignity, importance, and self-esteem.