Managing

Alzheimer's disease (AD) gets worse over time, and the course of the disease varies from person to person. Some people have the disease for only the last five years of their lives, while others may have it for as long as 20 years. The most common cause of death in people with Alzheimer's disease is infection.

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In managing the disease, physical exercise and social activity are important, as are proper nutrition, health maintenance, and a calm and well-structured environment.

For people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's:

• What to expect
• Counseling may help you cope
• Tips for living with early-onset Alzheimer's disease

Practical tips for taking care of someone with Alzheimer's:

• Legal aspects
• Caring for a person with behavior and communication problems
• Caring for your loved one's personal needs
• Eating and nutrition
• Benefits of exercise
• Sundown syndrome--people with Alzheimer's may decline in the evening
• Safety at home
• Driving and alternate transportation
• Traveling with a person with Alzheimer's

Help for caregivers:

• The caregiver's role
• About caregiver burnout
• Taking care of yourself and avoiding burnout

The economic and social burden of AD is very high; it is estimated that $80 billion to $100 billion is spent annually on the care of AD patients, and the cost per family is over $200,000 for each affected patient. Caregivers spend an average of 70 to 100 hours per week providing care and are more likely to require medical care themselves, including treatment for depression.