• Assemble a team. If the diagnosis is probable Alzheimer's, the next step is to start putting together an Alzheimer's care team. Alzheimer's care works best when it's a shared responsibility -- and when good resources and sources of support are available to the primary caregiver.
• Don't forget your own concerns. In addition to powwowing with your family about options for your loved one's care, be sure to start thinking about support for yourself (or the person who will be the primary caregiver). Financial, emotional, and physical stresses often build over time.

There's no single timetable for how the disease progresses, and your loved one may have many satisfying years ahead. Do what you can to ameliorate the symptoms, so that you can prolong his or her independence and dignity.