Six Books that Belong in Every Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Library
October 3, 2013 | Found In: Caregiver Tips
Worldwide, Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia affect 35.6 million people and this number is projected to triple by 2050. For many of those living with dementia, a family member assumes the role of primary caregiver. Although providing care for an elderly parent or loved one with Alzheimer’s can be a rewarding experience, some days can be more challenging than others. It can be emotionally taxing to watch a loved one become increasingly dependent on others as the disease progresses. Luckily, there are numerous resources and outlets of support available for caregivers. Learning about the disease and what to expect as it progresses will help you be better prepared to address the symptoms and needs that arise to ensure you provide the best care to your loved one. Here we list 6 of our favorite books that will help you navigate the winding waters of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease:
The Alzheimer’s Action Plan: What You Need to Know—and What You Can Do—About Memory Problems, from Prevention to Early Intervention and Care
by Dr. P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa P. Gwyther, MSW, with Tina Adler. Written by a doctor and social worker, this book provides evidence-based, easy-to-understand information on all aspects of memory disorders from causes to diagnosis to symptoms to potential treatments and caregiver tips.
The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer’s Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss
by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins. Originally published in the early 1980s, this book has been the go-to resource for families affected by dementia. The latest edition features updated information on the basics of the dementia, how to address behavioral problems and other symptoms, and caregiver resources.
Mind Over Gray Matter: A New Approach to Dementia Care
by Samuel T. Gontkovsky, Lily Sarafan, Kathy N. Johnson and James H. Johnson. Aimed at family and professional caregivers, this book details the causes, stages and treatments of dementia as well as the various issues and responsibilities that caregivers typically encounter. The book also includes detailed, scientifically-grounded strategies for improving quality of life of a loved one with Alzheimer’s.
Connecting the Dots: Breakthroughs in Communication as Alzheimer’s Advances
by Judith London. This book provides valuable tips for understanding and communicating with your loved one during the middle and late stages of Alzheimer’s. Effective communication strategies can help maintain a meaningful relationship with a loved one living with the disease.
Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver: How to Care for Your Loved One without Getting Overwhelmed . . . and without Doing It All Yourself
by Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer with Pierre A. Lehu. Written by renowned relationship expert Dr. Ruth Westheimer, this guide presents various coping strategies and is a wonderful resource for every family caregiver’s library.
The Alzheimer’s Caregiving Puzzle
by Patricia R. Callone and Connie Kudlacek. Written by two caregivers with over fifty years of experience, this book helps caregivers understand what their loved ones are experiencing through engaging charts, stories and diagrams.
Are you caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia? What resources have you found useful? Share your story in the comments box or on our Facebook page!
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