An Alzheimer’s Disease diagnosis can be frightening and initially overwhelming. The first step toward taking control of your life is to learn and understand the disease as much as you can. Whether you’re a patient or a caregiver, the best resources you can get your hands on are books. They can help you understand the disease and how to cope with the realities of the disease. Here are five recommended titles that will benefit those dealing with the impacts of dementia.
The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss
Considered by many the bible of dementia care, The 36-Hour Day is an invaluable resource and guide for caregivers. Not only does it offer practical advice from safety to finance, it also addresses the personal needs and emotions to help the reader cope with the challenges of dementia. Available at Book Depository.
The Forgetting. Alzheimer’s: Portrait of an Epidemic
The Forgetting is a multi-layered analysis of Alzheimer’s and its many implications. David Shenk presents much more than a detailed explanation of its causes and effects but captures the disease’s impact on its victims and their families. The result is a moving and engaging account of Alzheimer’s disease that offers a grim but encouraging look at the disease. Available at Book Depository.
Creating Moments of Joy
A treasure trove of ideas and inspiration, Creating Moments of Joy encourages you to lighten up and seize the humour even in the most hopeless moments. It’s easy to read with hundreds of practical tips to common problems such as eating, bathing, and sleeping. You’ll also enjoy the many words of wisdom author Jolene Brackey peppers throughout the book. Available at Book Depository.
Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s
Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s is a practical approach to the ensuring the emotional well-being of both patients and caregivers by relating to patients in their own reality. Armed with this method, this book aims to enhance communication between caregivers and patients while offering many of practical tips to deal with the challenges of Alzheimer’s. Available at Book Depository.
Before I Forget: Love, Hope, Help, and Acceptance in Our Fight Against Alzheimer’s
B. Smith is a restaurateur, magazine publisher, celebrity chef, and Alzheimer’s patient. With the help of Vanity Fair contributing editor Michael Shnayerson, B and her husband Dan share their story and lessons while weaving helpful advice on day-to-day challenges into the narrative. Available at Book Depository.
