When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it can be overwhelming, confusing and scary. For those not familiar with these diseases, gaining information is the best offensive move for friends and family. In addition to gleaning as much information as you can from medical professionals, you may also wish to do some reading on the subject. The following dementia books are some of the most recommended by experts in the field, and may be comforting for you.
Dementia Books to Consider
If you have a loved one with dementia, educating yourself can help you to be more prepared, more understanding, more compassionate – and to be able to be the best caregiver possible. Whether you’re interested in the latest research on Alzheimer’s, personal stories or counselor’s advice, there are many award winning books to choose from.
Here are some titles you may wish to look into:
36-Hour Day: Through continual updates, the 36-Hour Day provides the most current support resources and information for caregivers and families. Presented from the caregiver’s perspective, this honest books discusses challenges and coping strategies. Authors: Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabbins
Activities to do with Your Parent Who Has Alzheimer’s Dementia: Activities for daily living (ADLs) are important benchmark activities to judge the progression of the illness. The tasks outlined encourage individuals to maintain confidence and encourage mobility, socialization, and self-care skills. Finding alternative ways to accomplish ADLs can be overwhelming, but this book will render tasks and personal goals obtainable on a personal level. Author: Judith A. Levy
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: An dementia diagnosis inspires a myriad of questions. Loved ones have several possible courses of action in front of them. How to make the right choice? Healthcare professionals help readers to create a successful care plan for the patient; complete with coping methods, clinical trial information, and information the expected future of Alzheimer’s research. Authors: P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa P. Gwyther with Tina Alder
Before I Forget: Love, Hope, Help, and Acceptance in Our Fight Against Alzheimer’s:
This book relates the story of a professional publisher, restaurateur, and wife facing an Alzheimer’s diagnosis at the age of 66. She was determined to tell her story, resulting in a narrative of advice, challenges, and harsh realities. It is a story of hope, love, and empowering others to stay connected and engaged even after such a diagnosis. Authors: B. Smith and Dan Gasby.
Creating Moments of Joy Along the Alzheimer’s Journey: A Guide for Families and Caregivers: This book helps families to remember that even in dementia, joyous moments can still be created. In the first days following a diagnosis, families can feel lost in the darkness; and while that may feel overwhelming, the author spotlights ways to help families create new memories and moments with their loved ones. Author: Jolene Brackey
We are Not Ourselves: This fictional story tells of a multi-generational American family, and how their life changes when the father is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The author wrote the novel after his father died of Alzheimer’s, and wove his personal experience into the tale. Author: Matthew Thomas
Slow Dancing with a Stranger: In this personal journey, the author tells the story about her life as a caregiver for her husband during his battle with Alzheimer’s. She discusses the impact that the disease has on both the patient and those who are caring for them. Comer has committed her life to fighting for Alzheimer’s public awareness. Author: Meryl Comer
If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s, don’t despair. Look into the Alzheimer’s research and dementia books available to you, and educate yourself as much as possible. If you are looking for a caring and compassionate memory care center, we invite you to tour A Banyan Residence of Venice. We are here to help.
