The Long Journey of Alzheimer's Disease.

The growing elderly population is creating record numbers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementias. Nursing has an unprecedented opportunity to rethink how we care for adults with dementia, reduce the burden of caregivers, and preserve the personhood of patients. This article reviews AD and dementia pathophysiology, history, screening, stigma, treatments and interventions, and caregiver support. A nurse's journey with her mother with AD imparts the meaning of patient dignity.