Alzheimer's A to Z: Secrets to Successful Caregiving

This book was written for all of the people that enjoy learning and/or for those folks that have been presented with the formidable challenge of having Alzheimer's or caring for a loved one with this condition. I am a nurse that has recently graduated from nursing school,and what I would have given to have already absorbed the knowledge base that this book offers. After all of the "book learn'in" nurses go through, their long process of the actual patient "clinicals" begin. During this period of the education student nurses are emerged into the real time process of patient care. My first clinical rotation took place in a long term care facility and yes, I had a patient load that was often 90% comprised of Alzheimer's patients. I soon realized that I had no real knowledge base from which I could draw to care for, or more importantly understand my patients feelings. You absolutely need not be any sort of a medical professional to comprehend the material presented in the book, however, all medical professionals absolutely should not miss the opportunity of this important read. In short, conditions such as autism and Alzheimer's are seemingly becoming more prevalent in our society. Books like this offer at least some hope in gaining the tools needed to have the ability to help and understand these types of disease processes. Learn and read all that you can but if you only have the time or the initiative for one.........this is the book! Thank you, Sheryl Ford

As a worker in an Adult Day Facility, I have referred to Ms. Lokvig's book more times than I can count. It's organized practically by task which makes the information easily accessible. The author addresses the needs of the caregiver as well as those of the loved one, a necessary element of successful caregiving. I highly recommend this book to family, volunteer and professional caregivers alike.

Ms. Lokvig has stepped us through some of the most difficult behaviors and situations which may arise as we try to care for a person with dementia...the information she has lovingly and painstakingly gathered is readily accessible, as a previous reviewer has stated, so that one need not read the entire book to get to what one may need to know quickly.I found the writing has a calming affect and is reassuring. The book is so rich with eamples of how to redirect a sticky situation. I am a professional in the field of gerontology and can recommend this fresh approach to a difficult road without hesitation.

While I was caring for my 80 year old mother, I was unable to find a useful book on dementia or Alzheimer's. Every book I read was utterly depressing and sobering. Jytte Lokvig's thoughtful and original way of working with people afflicted with this disease will make it all seem manageable. Her insight and knowledge of the condition and her approach-to-care is totally compassionate and perceptive. Through her years of working and caring for her patients, she has distilled an attitude of care that she brings home for everybody. I recommend Alzheimer's A to Z, most highly. Caregivers, buy this book! It will not only instruct you in taking care of your loved one, but will also assist you in taking care of yourself while you do.

"Alzheimer's A to Z: Secrets of Successful Caregiving" is a wonderful book for those dealing with a friend or loved one with Alzheimer's. The book is organized alphabetically by topic. These topics include agitation, baby talk, coaching, cursing, diet, driving, eating, fantasy, hallucinations, listening, medication, obsessive behavior, pets, routines, singing, undressing, vitamins, word substitution, and many others. Each topic gives examples of the specific item, suggestions on how to handle the situation, and related topics. This organization is one of the things that make this book so valuable. You don't have to completely read through the entire thing to try to find answers to your questions. Instead you can go directly to the topic. Written is a style reminiscent of a family friend helping you understand someone with Alzheimer's, it inspires confidence, empathy, and patience in the caregiver. A highly recommended read for the non-professional seeking advice and understanding when dealing with someone with Alzheimer's.