Full Description
The landmark bestselling guide—now updated with the latest essential informationThe third edition of this critically acclaimed guide leads you through the realities of caring for a loved one struggling with Alzheimer's. The author, a nationally recognized authority, details the latest developments in treatment and care options and offers helpful, hopeful advice for getting through difficult challenges. Now fully revised and updated, this edition includes new chapters designed to help caregivers cope with stress and depression and offers information on the latest breakthrough research developments and treatments. Alzheimer's speaks directly to your vital concerns, including:
the symptoms and traits of Alzheimer's, what to expect at each progressive stage, and how to respond to behavior problems
the full range of treatments and support services available, including tips on how to locate and finance them
ways to understand your feelings and the impact of grief
new information on managing caregiver stress and chronic depression in sufferers
the latest therapies and medical research
With its sensitive and in-depth examination, Alzheimer's shows how to make the care you give more rewarding and effective and how to make the life of anyone caught in the grip of Alzheimer's more loving and comfortable.
Contents
Preface. Acknowledgments. Special Acknowledgment. THE CAREGIVER EXPERIENCE. What Is Alzheimer's Disease? Symptoms and Phases of Alzheimer's Disease. Depression and the Person with Alzheimer's Disease. Possible Causes of Alzheimer's Disease. Six Common Myths About Alzheimer's. Coping: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Caregiver's Experience. From Family Care to Alzheimer's Care: Preparing for Caregiving. Understanding Behavioral Changes. Stages of Family Adjustment. Family Responses to Care. Values, Beliefs, and the Caregiver Experience. How to Respond Positively to Alzheimer's Behaviors. Depression and the Alzheimer's Caregiver. Coping with Ongoing Caregiver Stress. Exploring Community Resources. RESEARCH AND TREATMENT. Abnormal Changes in the Brain. Treatment Possibilities. Psychiatric Medications and Dementia. An Afterword. Appendix A: Worksheets. Appendix B: Self-Help Groups and Organizations That Can Help. Appendix C: Internet and World Wide Web Resources. Biblography. Index.
