Product Description

This edition includes the latest information on Alzheimer’s risk factors, treatments, and prevention, as well as a new chapter, "Voices of Experience," composed of reflections by family members. It also provides information about new drugs approved since 1999 and the federal government’s decision to cover counseling and other health-related services through Medicare.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #29232 in Books
• Published on: 2003-03-27
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 304 pages

From Library Journal
With increased awareness of the symptoms of Alzheimer's and improved diagnostic techniques, more people are learning that they or a family member have a memory disorder. Yet few books aimed at helping families understand and cope with the disease's early stages have been availableAuntil now. Kuhn, a social worker and education director at Chicago's Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, guides families in developing a philosophy of care, offering clear, current information on the nature of the illness along with anecdotes drawn from his own practice and first-person caregiver accounts. Throughout, Kuhn stresses the importance of sharing the care by involving others. Especially valuable is the extensive resource list of web sites, organizations, and references to consumer and professional literature. More details, particularly on such topics as finding knowledgeable medical providers, would have strengthened this worthwhile book. Still, this is a much-needed addition to the Alzheimer's literature. For all consumer health collections.AKaren McNally Bensing, Benjamin Rose Inst. Lib., Cleveland
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From AudioFile
In a smoothly abridged and information-packed audio, an experienced mental health practitioner focuses on the early stages of this devastating disease. He clarifies the differences between Alzheimer's symptoms and impairments due to normal aging or other brain syndromes. His explanations of the medical and physiological reasons for Alzheimer's symptoms are very accessible. Without being melodramatic he sounds sensitive to how families experience this kind of loss. Helped by a reasonably optimistic reading by William Dufris, the author's recommendations cover a wide range of social and medical options, all intended to help families retain some sense of order and equilibrium while they cope with this kind of tragedy. T.W. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Customer Reviews

Still the leading book in the field
When the first edition of this book appeared in late 1999, it became the antidote for the scary books about Alzheimer's disease that have dominated the literature since the 1980s. By focusing on the early stages of the disease, Kuhn provides the right dose of help and hope to those struggling to come to terms with the myriad changes in roles and responsibilities of all concerned. The second edition provides updated information while leaving intact positive messages about living with Alzheimer's and not merely surviving through it. A new chapter gives voice to experienced family members who share valuable lessons. This book provides accurate information about the disease and useful tips that enable family members, friends and interested professionals to cope with someone's memory loss and other thinking problems. It's the one book that should be read by all starting down this difficult road. And doctors should be writing down this title on a prescription pad!

Best Road Map for Families
I wish this book had been available when I started the caregiving journey with my parents, both with (mis-diagnosed) early stage Alzheimer's disease. I had to learn everything the hard way. Knowledge is power and this book will explain all the details your doctor doesn't have time to tell you. If you know anyone starting down this path with elderly loved ones, this is a book they will thank you for.

I also interviewed Mr. Kuhn on my radio program, "Coping With Caregiving" (wsRadio.com) and was impressed further by his vast knowledge and by the way he explained Alzheimer's early stage, which is so easily overlooked by families as well as physicians.

Jacqueline Marcell, Author of "Elder Rage, or Take My Father...Please! How to Survive Caring for Aging Parents."

Just what I needed
This book covered all the issues I'm facing, both as a son of an reciently diagnoised dad, and as a legal agent for another family member with Alzheimer's. This has been by far the best book I've found on the practical matters that must be addressed early on (i.e. driving, finances, and care choices). For now, this is my reference book. I'd strongly suggest starting with this book if Alzheimer's has entered your family or close circle of friends.