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Alzheimer's Disease has become a familiar and fearful diagnosis for many older adults during the last decade. A very debilitating disease, its effects extend far beyond the devastation experienced by the patient: it strains the emotional and practical resources of the victim's family and friends. While the cause of Alzheimer's Disease remains unknown and treatment is limited, much research and clinical work is in progress. Possible means of symptom amelioration and more effective methods of managing these neurologically impaired older adults are being studied. There is hope for breakthroughs in both treatment and prevention in the near future.
For the most part, the literature on this syndrome is devoted to identifying symptoms and understanding the behavioral changes of the declining patient: less attention has been paid to the needs of the primary caregivers, who need guidance in management techniques and coping strategies to use during the progression of the disorder. Caring for the Alzheimer Patient: A Practical Guide offers comprehensive and practical information for the caregiver, who is usually a member of the family. The chapters are authored by experts in the health care professions and related fields, and focus on the provision of comfort and quality care. The book cover a wide range of topics, which fall into four major categories: managing the medical, physical, and psychological problems of the patient; supporting the psychological well-being of the caregiver; effective utilization of community resources; and ethical and legal considerations.
The authors emphasize the need to reduce the level of stress for both the patient and the caregiver. They discuss how education, counseling, therapy, and support groups can be very helpful. The editors and the contributors have provided a comprehensive body of knowledge of great practical value for understanding and developing an individual approach to the Alzheimer patient