An estimated 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. That number continues to grow - by 2050 the number of individuals with Alzheimer's could range from 11.3 million to 16 million. Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. It is a devastating disorder of the brain's nerve cells that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior. Written for patients, their families, and caregivers,
A Caregiver's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease: 300 Tips for Making Life Easier will help readers understand what is physically happening to the brain so they can empower their own special skills and talents throughout the disease process. The book is divided into three sections that correspond to the progression of Alzheimer's and the unique challenges encountered at each stage.
Section A: The major part of the book divides the progression of the disease into Stages: the Pre-Clinical Stage; Early-To-Mild Stage, which marks the onset of the disease; Moderate Stage; and the Severe Stage. Hundreds of practical tips geared to coping and compensating at each level of the disease provide support for the affected individual and the caregiver.
Section B: A bonus section of questions and answers addresses specific issues caregivers face and give them points to reflect on as they continue the process. Key topics covered include:
- Legal and financial issues
- Family Forums in the caregiving process
- The role of medication at various stages of the disease
- Helping children understand what is happening to a loved one
- Handling the holidays and celebrations
- Making the living environment more stimulating and enjoyable
Section C: Lists resources and suggests websites to find additional information about the disease itself as well as related valuable networks.
With an abundance of pointers and guidelines for affected individuals, their families, friends and caregivers, A Caregiver's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease: 300 Tips for Making Life Easier is essential for all readers who want to focus on the capabilities that remain instead of those that have been lost.;Letter to the Reader; Acknowledgements; Introduction; SECTION A: Tips to Make Life Easier For Persons With Alzheimer's Disease, Their Caregivers, Family Members, and Friends. Pre-clinical stage: Wonder and Worry Overview of the Pre-Clinical Stage; The Brain of a Healthy Person; Explanation of the Seven Key Functions of the Brain; Is it Old Age or Dementia?; How the Disease Affects the Seven Key Functions; II. Early-To-Mild Stage: (3-5 years) - Something's Going Wrong; Moderate Stage: (3-5 years) - So Many Changes; Severe Stage: Making Every Moment Count. SECTION B: Helpful Information Concerning Alzheimer's Disease or Related Dementia That is Not Stage-Specific. SECTION C: Resources Available for Those Affected With Alzheimer's Disease, Their Caregivers, Family Members, and Friends; What local Resources are Available?; Webliography: Alzheimer's Information on the Internet.;"As the authors of this handy, elucidating and empathetic guide take readers through the progression of Alzheimer's disease, they pay special attention to the patient, having them understand what will be happening to them and making sure that they, and those entrusted with their care as the disease takes its course, tap into their special skills and talents as long as they are able...The authors effectively relate the importance of empathy and patience, as well as having a plan and a network of friends and advisors to deal with the progression of Alzheimer's disease."--Kirkus Reports
"This book, which I can thoroughly recommend, is certainly revealing and contains much that is critical for caregivers to know. I believe every professional working with those in dementia and their caregivers would do well to have a copy. The book lends itself to reading straight through and then to being used as and when it is necessary as a reference. It is easy to find specific information as the framework is helpful and logical. The sections on the spiritual needs of those with dementia were welcome topics... I wish I had had this book when I set out on the caregiving journey."--International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry"