Synopses & Reviews
Is it really Alzheimers? How to find out and intervene early to maintain the highest quality of life
“Most of us will either get Alzheimers or care for a loved one who has. This action plan can empower you to make a difference.”---Mehmet C. Oz, M.D.
What would you do if your mother was having memory problems?
Alzheimers is a disease affecting more than five million Americans, with a new diagnosis being made every seventy-two seconds. Millions more are worried or at risk due to mild memory loss or family history. Although experts agree that early diagnosis and treatment are essential, many people with memory loss and their families---and even their doctors---dont know where to turn for authoritative, state-of-the-art advice and answers to all of their questions.
Now, combining the insights of a world-class physician and an award-winning social worker, this groundbreaking book tells you everything you need to know, including:
· The best tests to determine if this is---or is not---Alzheimers disease
· The most (and least) effective medical treatments
· Coping with behavioral and emotional changes through the early and middle stages
· Gaining access to the latest clinical trials
· Understanding the future of Alzheimers
Clear, compassionate, and empowering, The Alzheimers Action Plan is the first book that anyone dealing with mild memory loss or early Alzheimers must-read in order to preserve the highest possible quality of life for as long as possible.
Review
“Check out "The Alzheimer's Action Plan," one of the best books about this illness to cross our desks. The authors, P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa Gwyther, explain -- in painstaking but lucid detail -- how to diagnose, treat and live with memory problems.” --The Wall Street Journal
“I fully expect that this exceptionally well-written, reader-friendly book will become the standard resource for patients with Alzheimer disease and their loved ones.” --JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association)
“Verdict: Evidence-based content, conversational writing, and a good dose of humor make this an outstanding addition to collections on aging and caregiving and an excellent companion to Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabinss The 36-Hour Day. Highly recommended. Background: This book is based on the belief that people with Alzheimers "have the right to access the best, most personalized care possible." Physician Doraiswamy (chief of biological psychiatry, Duke Univ. Medical Ctr.) and social worker Gwyther (founder, Duke Univ. Alzheimers Family Support Program; Steps to Success) compile a wealth of essential information on all aspects of memory disorders for both new and experienced caregivers and individuals with failing memories. Detailed discussions cover causes and diagnoses, disease-related behavioral and emotional changes, available and future drug treatments, the benefits of participating in clinical trials, and more, along with a host of practical tips intended to enable caregivers and patients to live the best life possible. Resources include "Our Top 40 Questions and Answers"; a list of dementia-related organizations, books, and web sites; and tips for maintaining a healthy brain.” --Library Journal (starred review)
"Probably the most complete book weve seen on Alzheimers in the many years weve looked at this disease." --AARP Prime Time Radio
“[The Alzheimers Action Plan] offers cutting-edge information about diagnosis, care, and clinical trials….Organized into a bite-sized format; bullet points, boxes, and checklists make the information readily accessible….The authors aspire to give readers the tools to take charge of their diagnosis and medical treatment, to continue living with their loved ones at the highest possible level of social and emotional functioning, to understand clinical research, to enroll in a clinical trial if they wish, and to understand what to expect and how to prepare. With its broad scope, the book offers an interdisciplinary overview of medical, scientific, psychological, and personal perspectives on AD. To this reviewer, reading this book felt like having a best friend who works in the field of Alzheimer's and gives insider information about navigating the medical system.” --The Alzheimers Forum
“Dr. Doraiswamy has done a masterful job of communicating what the layman should know on the treatment, the care giving and most important, the prevention of Alzheimer's. It was gratifying to learn about the mountain of evidence that what is good for your heart is also good for your brain.” --Arthur Agatston, M.D., cardiologist and #1 New York Times bestselling author of The South Beach Diet
“The Alzheimers Action Plan provides a clear and compelling message that there is something we can all do about Alzheimers disease. The book presents accurate, up-to-date information and step-by-step recommendations that people with the disease, their families, and friends can use now to reduce the potentially devastating effects of Alzheimers disease.”--Katie Maslow, M.S.W., Associate Director of Quality Care Advocacy for the Alzheimers Association and winner of the 2003 ASA Award from the American Society on Aging
“Most of us will either get Alzheimer's or care for a loved one who has. This action plan can empower you to make a difference.” --Mehmet C. Oz, M.D., co-author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, You: The Owners Manual
“This book is the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide for the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. Whether you are a health care professional or have Alzheimer's in your family or are simply interested to living to an old age, this book is a must read.” --Deepak Chopra, M.D., New York Times bestselling author of Perfect Health:The Complete Mind/Body Guide
“I love this book! A powerful and vital resource for people who need it the most. Dr. Doraiswamy is that unique blend of medical expertise mixed in with warmth and compassion topped off with humility that makes him rare and wonderful.” --Leeza Gibbons, Emmy award-winning TV host and founder of Leeza's Place and the Memory Foundation
“A readable, informative and thorough guide to the early stages of Alzheimer disease. I highly recommend it.” --Peter Rabins, M.D., co-author of The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring For Persons with Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementing Illnesses, and Memory Loss in Later Life
“Dr. Murali Doraiswamy, one of America's top memory and Alzheimers specialists, has packed this book with expert advice and compassionate wisdom, creating an indispensable guide for anyone concerned about their own memory or that of a loved one. Both accessible and comprehensive, this is a must-read not just for families, but for their doctors as well.” --Gary Small, M.D., Director, UCLA Center on Aging, and author of The Memory Bible and The Longevity Bible
“Memory does matter. Adults across the life cycle are asking questions, many questions! The authors answer these questions for the educated public, family members who encounter memory loss in a loved one, and even adults who believe they are experiencing early memory loss. The answers are comprehensive and understandable, no small accomplishment given the plethora of new information available--information that at times is not only confusing but also conflicting. Ample sprinkling of case studies assure the reader that the authors not only read the literature, they listen to patients and families and take care of them.” --Dan G. Blazer, M.D., Ph.D., former Dean of Medical Education, Duke University School of Medicine; past President of the American Geriatrics Society
“If you and your family face the specter of Alzheimer's disease, run - don't walk - to get Lisa Gwyther's help. She combines many years of experience with empathy and respect for the patient. That results in the most sensible, compassionate and practical advice. Her guidance in the creation of ‘The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer's, and ‘The Forgetting's Web site was invaluable. She is my hero.” --Naomi S. Boak, Executive Producer, Emmy Award-winning PBS special, "The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer's"
“Lisa Gwyther is a national treasure. She has been a pioneer in providing innovative care and education for Alzheimers patients and their families for many years. Lisas long experience helping families cope with the challenges of memory loss and Alzheimers disease makes her uniquely qualified to co-author this book. Families experiencing the new world of memory loss and Alzheimers couldnt ask for a better companion for the journey. Her warmth, compassion, and wisdom shine through, and will help light the way.” --Pat Lynch, Director of Communications, Alzheimers Center Program, National Institute on Aging
Review
Praise for The Alzheimers Action Plan:
"Five million Americans have Alzheimer disease, and an even larger number with mild to moderate memory loss are at high risk of developing this illness. Murali Doraiswamy, a leading clinical researcher in Alzheimer disease, and Lisa Gwyther, a founder of the Alzheimer Association, have co-authored this timely, state-of-the-art book directed at patients with Alzheimer disease, their informants, and their primary care physicians....I fully predict that this exceptionally well-written, reader-friendly book will become the standard resource for patients with Alzheimer disease and their loved ones. Its up-to-date information, patient-centered approach, and focus on prevention and treatment directed at patients with incipient Alzheimer disease distinguish it from The 36 Hour Day by Nancy Mace and Peter Rabins, which is directed at caregivers of patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer disease."
--JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association)
"Check out "The Alzheimer's Action Plan," one of the best books about this illness to cross our desks. The authors, P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa Gwyther, explain -- in painstaking but lucid detail -- how to diagnose, treat and live with memory problems." --The Wall Street Journal
"Evidence-based content, conversational writing, and a good dose of humor make this an outstanding addition to collections on aging and caregiving and an excellent companion to Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins's The 36-Hour Day. Highly recommended."
--Library Journal (starred review)
"Probably the most complete book weve seen on Alzheimers in the many years weve looked at this disease." --AARP Prime Time Radio
"Highly recommended for consumer and aging health collections along with P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa P. Gwyther's The Alzheimer's Action Plan" --Library Journal on The Anti-Alzheimer's Prescription
"Dr. Doraiswamy has done a masterful job of communicating what the layman should know on the treatment, the care giving and, most important, the prevention of Alzheimer's. It was gratifying to learn about the mountain of evidence that what is good for your heart is also good for your brain."
--Arthur Agatston, M.D., cardiologist and #1 New York Times bestselling author of The South Beach Diet
"Memory does matter. Adults across the life cycle are asking questions, many questions! The authors answer these questions for the educated public, family members who encounter memory loss in a loved one, and even adults who believe they are experiencing early memory loss. The answers are comprehensive and understandable, no small accomplishment given the plethora of new information available—information that at times is not only confusing but also conflicting."
--Dan G. Blazer, M.D., Ph.D., former Dean of Medical Education, Duke University School of Medicine; past President of the American Geriatrics Society
"If you and your family face the specter of Alzheimer's disease, run - don't walk - to get Lisa Gwyther's help. She combines many years of experience with empathy and respect for the patient. That results in the most sensible, compassionate, and practical advice….She is my hero."
--Naomi S. Boak, Executive Producer, Emmy Award-winning PBS special, "The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer's"
"This book is the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide for the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. Whether you are a health care professional or have Alzheimer's in your family or are simply interested to living to an old age, this book is a must read."
--Deepak Chopra, M.D., New York Times bestselling author of Perfect Health: The Complete Mind/Body Guide
"I love this book! A powerful and vital resource for people who need it the most. Dr. Doraiswamy is that unique blend of medical expertise mixed in with warmth and compassion topped off with humility that makes him rare and wonderful."
--Leeza Gibbons, Emmy award-winning TV host and founder of Leeza's Place and the Memory Foundation
"Lisa Gwyther is a national treasure. She has been a pioneer in providing innovative care and education for Alzheimers patients and their families for many years. Lisas long experience helping families cope with the challenges of memory loss and Alzheimers disease makes her uniquely qualified to co-author this book. Families experiencing the new world of memory loss and Alzheimers couldnt ask for a better companion for the journey. Her warmth, compassion, and wisdom shine through, and will help light the way."
--Pat Lynch, Director of Communications, Alzheimers Center Program, National Institute on Aging
"The Alzheimers Action Plan provides a clear and compelling message that there is something we can all do about Alzheimers disease. The book presents accurate, up-to-date information and step-by-step recommendations that people with the disease, their families, and friends can use now to reduce the potentially devastating effects of Alzheimers disease."
--Katie Maslow, M.S.W., Associate Director of Quality Care Advocacy for the Alzheimers Association and winner of the 2003 ASA Award from the American Society on Aging
"Most of us will either get Alzheimer's or care for a loved one who has. This action plan can empower you to make a difference."
--Mehmet C. Oz, M.D., co-author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, You: The Owners Manual
"A readable, informative, and thorough guide to the early stages of Alzheimers disease. I highly recommend it."
--Peter Rabins, M.D., co-author of The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring For Persons with Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementing Illnesses, and Memory Loss in Later Life
"Dr. Murali Doraiswamy, one of America's top memory and Alzheimers specialists, has packed this book with expert advice and compassionate wisdom, creating an indispensable guide for anyone concerned about their own memory or that of a loved one. Both accessible and comprehensive, this is a must-read not just for families, but for their doctors as well."
--Gary Small, M.D., Director, UCLA Center on Aging, and author of The Memory Bible and The Longevity Bible
"The authors speak authoritatively, providing sound evidence for the points they make that is based on current understanding of Alzheimers disease, but the language they use and the tone of the book will make their advice and guidelines for Alzheimers care and treatment readily accessible to the public….Bravo on a job so well done!"
--John Q. Trojanowski, M.D., Ph.D., William Maul Measey-Truman G. Schnabel, Jr., M.D. Professor of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Center Co-Director and Director, Institute on Aging, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center
Synopsis
Leading experts from Duke University provide the cutting-edge information that every family affected by Alzheimer's needs--from the benefits of early detection to prolonging quality of life.
Synopsis
What would you do if your mother was having memory problems?
Five million Americans have Alzheimers disease, with a new diagnosis being made every seventy-two seconds, with millions more at risk. Although experts agree that early diagnosis and treatment are essential, families dont know where to turn for authoritative, state-of-the-art advice and answers to all of their questions.
Now, combining the insights of a world-class physician and an award-winning social worker, this ground-breaking book tells you everything you need to know, including:
The best tests to determine if this is—or is not—Alzheimers disease The most (and least) effective medical treatments Coping with the effects Gaining access to the latest clinical trials Understanding the future of AlzheimersClear, compassionate, and empowering, The Alzheimers Action Plan is a must-read.About the Author
P. MURALI DORAISWAMY, M.D., a renowned expert on brain health, is head of Duke Universitys Biological Psychiatry division and a Senior Fellow at Dukes Center for the Study of Aging. As Director of Psychiatry Clinical Trials at Duke for nearly ten years, he received numerous awards for his work as an investigator on landmark studies. The author of more than two hundred scientific articles, Dr. Doraiswamy has served as an adviser to the Food and Drug Administration, the American Federation for Aging Research, the National Institutes of Aging, and the World Health Organization, as well as leading Alzheimers medical journals and advocacy groups. His research has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and The New York Times, and on CBS News, The Today Show, NPR, and the BBC.
LISA P. GWYTHER, M.S.W., Associate Professor in the Duke University Medical Center Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, is a social worker with thirty-eight years experience in aging and Alzheimers services. She is the education director of the Bryan Alzheimers Disease Research Center at Duke and the current president of the Gerontological Society of America. The author of 130 scientific and lay publications, she was honored in 1998 as one of the founders of the national Alzheimers Association, and has won national and state awards for documentaries on Alzheimers disease and creativity in Alzheimers programming. The mother of two and grandmother of four, she resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with her husband of forty years.
TINA ADLER, a freelance writer and editor specializing in health and science, lives in Cabin John, Maryland. She cared for two family members who had Alzheimers disease.