More and more people are suffering from dementia and need help. Contrary to the persistent prejudice that elderly people are being pushed aside, this help is predominantly provided by families—often to the point of exhaustion for the caregivers. With a deep understanding of elderly individuals, as well as the needs of the caring relatives, the authors describe the progression of a dementia illness. The example of Gerti Thomas and her mother, Elisabeth Bach, illustrates typical problems faced by a caregiving family, from Mrs. Bach's first signs of confusion to her death. Throughout the book, questions that caregivers often ask are addressed and answered competently and empathetically. Erich Schützendorf, Dipl.-Päd., Head of the Department for Aging Issues and Deputy Director of the VHS Kreis Viersen. Member of the "Geragogy" working group in Germany.