Synopses & Reviews
What would you do if your mother was having memory problems?
Five million Americans have Alzheimer's 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 don't 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--Alzheimer's disease The most (and least) effective medical treatments Coping with the effects Gaining access to the latest clinical trials Understanding the future of Alzheimer'sClear, compassionate, and empowering, The Alzheimer's Action Plan is a must-read.
P. Murali Doraiswamy, M.D., a leading researcher in the field (The Wall Street Journal), is Chief of Biological Psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center.
Lisa P. Gwyther, M.S.W., is the founding director of Duke's Alzheimer's Family Support Program and a former president of the Gerontological Society of America.
Tina Adler is a science and health writer who has also cared for two family members who had Alzheimer's. Recipient of an Honorable Mention from The American Medical Writers Association
Five million Americans have Alzheimer's 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 don't 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--Alzheimer's disease; the most (and least) effective medical treatments; coping with the effects; gaining access to the latest clinical trials; and understanding the future of Alzheimer's. Clear, compassionate, and empowering, The Alzheimer's Action Plan is a must-read for anyone seeking to deeply understand one of the most devastating and complex diseases of our time. 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) 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)
One of the best books about Alzheimer's] to cross our desks.--The Wall Street Journal
Dr. Doraiswamy has done a masterful job of communicating what the layman should know on the treatment, the caregiving, 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 Alzheimer's Action Plan provides a clear and compelling message that there is something we can all do about Alzheimer's 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 Alzheimer's disease.--Katie Maslow, M.S.W., Associate Director of Quality Care Advocacy for the Alzheimer's 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 Owner's 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 Alzheimer's 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
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
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
This groundbreaking book combines the expertise of a worldclass physician and an award-winning social worker to tell families everything they need to know about brain health and the early stages of memory loss, including how and why to intervene, the most (and least) effective treatments, practical strategies to optimize quality of life, and new research on prevention and care.
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 leading researcher in the field” (The Wall Street Journal), is Chief of Biological Psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center.
Lisa P. Gwyther, M.S.W., is the founding director of Dukes Alzheimers Family Support Program and a former president of the Gerontological Society of America.
Tina Adler is a science and health writer who has also cared for two family members who had Alzheimers.