The Common Sense Guide to Dementia For Clinicians and Caregivers

Abstract

(from the cover) This Common Sense Guide provides a highly accessible approach to practical dementia care. It spotlights many real-world concerns not usually covered in standard textbooks, while presenting a more detailed medical perspective than typical caregiver manuals. Written by two dementia specialists, this ground-breaking book uniquely combines the perspectives of neurology and psychiatry to meet a variety of caregiver needs. Essential topics include how to find the right clinician, make the most of a doctor's visit, and avert a crisis—or manage one that can't be avoided. The authors place an emphasis on caring for the caregiver as well as the patient. Often difficult issues, such as driving, financial management, legal matters, long-term placement, and end-of-life care, are met head-on. Tried, true, and time-saving tips are explained in terms of what works—and what doesn't—with regard to clinical evaluation, medications, behavioral measures, and alternate therapies. Clinicians, family members, and other caregivers will find this easy-to-read volume useful and relevant across the spectrum of dementia (including Alzheimer's disease and non-Alzheimer's types) and at all stages of this challenging illness. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved) (cover)