Caregiver support and dementia: What are your book recommendations?

Posted by proff @proff, Jan 28, 2021

One of the best books for caregivers is one by Martin Schreiber, Wisconsin's former governor whose wife, Elaine, had Alzheimer's and for whom he was caregiver. In the book, My Two Elaine's: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer's Caregiver, he tell caregivers everything he wished he had known and nobody tells you. It is available on line, is large print, and is the best read I've had.

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johnna16 | @johnna16 | May 17, 2023

Has anyone read 36 hours a day and should I buy a copy? Thanks!

ilikegreen | @ilikegreen | May 17, 2023

In reply to @johnna16 "Has anyone read 36 hours a day and should I buy a copy? Thanks!" + (show)

Hi, the first book that came to mind before I opened your post was The 36-Hour Day, 6th edition. Released 36 years after the original, this edition continues to provide relevant, practical, and up-to-date advice to those providing care to an individual with memory loss and still serves as the gold-standard care guide for dementia caregivers. I would suggest first borrowing it from your local public library to see if it so informs you as well.  

The authors describe in detail the changed behaviors a person may show, and suggests plans of action toward dealing with these behaviors to decrease stress in both the caregiver and the person who has dementia. It teaches financial literacy as applied to eldercare. Options such as adult daycare, at-home caregivers, and assisted living are analyzed, empowering the reader to make informed choices.

The authors also discuss the complex emotions that run through the heads of those who have dementia, includes redirection techniques, and emphasizes the importance of patience and empathy with those afflicted. It also enriches understanding of the biological components of memory loss to help one better understand the science of why people with dementia act the way they do. Many caregivers or prospective health care workers can benefit from the authors' study of the condition and how people can continue to thrive through it.