Alzheimer's Stories.
A Caregiver's Guide to Mismatched Outfits, Goofy Hair and Beer for Breakfast.
(ISBN 1-59113-418-8) By Karen Favo Walsh BOOK SUMMARY: Do you suspect someone you love suffers from Alzheimer's disease (AD)? Curious behaviors surface long before an official diagnosis. Is your person hiding your shoes, repeating stories, wandering? You're not alone. According to a worldwide estimate by Alzheimer's Disease International, 44 million people currently have AD. 15.7 million more are caregivers. Alzheimer's Stories contains honest, intimate stories that illustrate the reality of caring for an Alzheimer's patient. There is no false rosy picture, or "poor me" story here. Instead, the reader watches the family grapple with wandering, grief, food safety, lack of sleep, day care, and assisted living decisions. Intimate firsthand details show current and potential caregivers the challenges certain to fill their days. Caregivers need flexibility and a sense of humor according to the author. Walsh says, "If it doesn't work now, try again in five minutes," and "If you can't find something, check the freezer." Walsh learned first-hand that Alzheimer's is joy tangled with sorrow. Her credentials include caregiving, a BS in Journalism and over thirty years of communications work. |
If you are a caregiver, friend to a caregiver, or have a relative, friend or neighbor with Alzheimer's, you should read this book.
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Resources
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AwardsAlzheimer's Stories won the Florida Writers Association's Royal Palm Literary Award. First Place for Adult Nonfiction, 2004.
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Publications
• Fashion Amnesia
• Hat-Cha-Lings • Advice to Houseguests • Thanksgiving Secret • Kiss the Cook |
Reviews
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