Abstract
Alzheimer’s/Dementia is a slow and devastating illness that impacts adults at the core of who they are. It is a disease that not only affects the individuals suffering from it but it impacts the family system as well through financial, emotional, and sociological stressors. Those that identify themselves as primary caregivers are often overlooked when it comes to treatment plans which is directly correlated to the wellbeing of the individual diagnosed. Current related research literature was reviewed. The researchers also utilized interviewing professionals in this field for additional information and insight. Personal experiences were taken into account when approaching the subject of working with this population group. One of the researchers utilized her work experience at a local skilled nursing facility and with a home health agency to conduct surveys. Alzheimer’s/Dementia is a progressive, deteriorating disease with long-term implications. The inevitable mental incapacitation of the patient leaves the family and/or caregiver responsible for the wellbeing of this individual. This being said, the caregiver and family members must become knowledgeable about the disease process, availability of community resources, and legal issues that are associated with this responsibility.