The Best Books to Help You Learn About Dementia
Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of memory loss can at times be overwhelming – not only for the person experiencing it but also for their family and caregivers. Doctors can offer plenty of information and knowledge, but sometimes, you just need a deeper understanding.
Sifting through the available reading centered around dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can be quite a daunting task, considering the number of books and articles that have been published on the topic. While you can find all kinds of information online, here we offer some literature we’ve found to be helpful. The Alzheimer’s Association has a great list of informative books and resources and provides a collection of literature via its online library. On top of that, you’re likely to find the books we recommend and many more in your local public library.
The 36-Hour Day
Families and loved ones affected by dementia have turned to this book for more than 30 years as a trusted source for more information on memory loss. “The 36-Hour Day” covers everything from the basics of dementia to coping with the confusion and moods of someone with a form of memory loss. In addition to giving information on dementia itself, the book discusses the logistics of caring for someone with it, from financial and legal issues to finding support groups.
Learning to Speak Alzheimer's
Joanne Koenig Coste’s “Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s” will change the way you understand and live with the disease. Coste suggests relating to people with dementia by interacting with them in their own realities to promote their emotional wellbeing. Her innovative method, referred to as “habilitation,” improves communication between people with dementia and their caretakers.
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living with Alzheimer's & Other Dementias
This version of “Chicken Soup for the Soul” offers 101 inspiring stories by people you can relate to who are also caregiving for loved ones with dementia. Turn to this collection if you’re hoping to find hope, inspiration, or solace. Focusing on themes of love, counting your blessings, thinking positively, and overcoming challenges, this book is sure to bring smiles, some tears, and many emotions on every page.
Activities to Do with Your Parent Who Has Alzheimer’s Dementia
This book offers new ideas and activities for people with Alzheimer’s disease to keep up their self-care skills, socialization, and mobility. Author Judith A. Levy lists more than 50 activity ideas with suggestions on how to implement them with your loved one. And in addition to providing activities for the person with dementia, the book gives suggestions for their caregivers to find help, too, with caregiver burnout prevention ideas and support sources. You’ll also find definitions of medical terms frequently used around dementia and room-by-room safety suggestions.
Living Your Best with Early-Stage Alzheimer’s: An Essential Guide
A must-read for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease as well as their loved ones, Lisa Snyder’s “essential guide” offers advice for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. It’s becoming more common for people to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s early, when they’ll likely still have several years with mild symptoms. This book provides information on how to cope with Alzheimer’s, manage symptoms, plan for the future, and maintain important relationships.
Find these books online or in your local library or bookshop. To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and staying close to the seniors in your life, visit Matteo Realty Partners.