At the Heart of Alzheimer’s, A Complete Guidebook to Understanding and Caring for a Person with Alzheimer’s Disease
by Carol Simpson, Foreword by Philip D. Sloane, MD, MPH

Understanding Alzheimer’s Handling Behaviors

Communication Techniques Caregiver Survival Tips

Handling Family Dynamics Finding Support Systems

Choosing the Best Residential Care Facility

Forging a Partnership for Care

“Gather all the information you can about Alzheimer’s … join support groups … look very closely … at the main caregiver and see what you can do to help [the patient and the caregiver.”—Nils Lofgren

“If you emphasize the strengths, it will help you develop new ways of communicating and interacting effectively.” —Carol Simpson

“Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a roller coaster. Sometimes you feel strong, sometimes helpless. It’s important to give yourself credit for how you handle the situation. You do what seems best at the time and you can’t expect more from yourself.” —Lisa Guither, MSW, Director, Family Support Program, Duke Center for Aging

“Making the decision to choose a nursing center is tough. But by planning ahead—you’ll be able to make the best possible decision for your family.” —Jack Lemmon

“Even when [my grandfather] was no longer coherent, he made us realize that love is not contingent upon how the outer person functions.” —Alan Trub

“Although people with Alzheimer’s seldom organize their environment, they respond to it. That’s why it’s important to use to structure the surroundings to suit individual preferences and abilities.” —Philip D. Staae, MD, MPH

“Families can provide a lot of strength and comfort — maybe not exactly like we dream of, but good enough.” —Jon, family caregiver

“If Alzheimer’s teaches us anything, it’s not to be too hard on people. Give up a bit of control and just love each other the best that you can.” —Lynda O’Brie