The spectrum of hope
Subtitle: an optimistic and new approach to Alzheimer's disease and other dementias
By: Gayatri Devi, MD
Published: 2017
Language: eng
Number of pages: 324
ISBN-13: 9780761193098
Copyright date: 2017
Subjects: Dementia; Alzheimer's disease
Description: "By defining Alzheimer's Disease as a spectrum disorder---like autism, it affects different people differently---Dr. Gayatri Devi offers new hope for its millions of sufferers. A neurologist who's been specializing in dementia and memory loss for more than 20 years, Dr. Devi shares the stories of her patients in the kind of narrative medical writing that grips the reader, humanizes the science, and offers equal parts practical wisdom and advice. She explains the importance of an early diagnosis; drugs and therapies that can help manage the disease; and how to cope, from maintaining independence to the best ways to fight depression and apathy. There are chapters on sexuality, genetics, communication, even staying on the job---because through her practice, Dr. Devi knows that the majority of Alzheimer's patients continue to live and work in their communities. They babysit the grandkids, drive to the store (or own the store), serve their clients, or otherwise live fulfilling lives."--Back cover.
Notes: Includes index.
Table of contents: title: Introduction; title: Do I have Alzheimer's? Identifying memory disorders and the importance of early diagnosis; title: I have Alzheimer's: now what? Alzheimer's as a spectrum disease; title: and using a multipronged treatment approach; title: Whether I have Alzheimer's disease is nobody's business but my own. When and how to share the diagnosis; title: Do I need to quit my job? Continuing to work with dementia; title: and knowing when to retire; title: Who says I can't drive? Maintaining independence and dignity in Alzheimer's; title: Will I pass this on to my children? The genetics of Alzheimer's; title: and paths to prevention; title: Do I face special challenges as a woman? Gender and Alzheimer's; title: I just don't care about anything anymore. Treating depression and anxiety in dementia and what to do about apathy; title: I'd be crazy not to be paranoid! Understanding paranoia, apraxia, and other frustrating behaviors, and how to effectively communicate when logic doesn't work; title: I'm not lost; title: I'm on the road less traveled. Why not to worry about wandering; title: I can't take it anymore! Advice to caregivers; title: self-care, stress reduction, and when to seek additional help; title: I think my husband is cheating on me with my aide. Navigating sexuality: suspicion, affairs, and special arrangements; title: Should I go to the hospital if I'm sick? Treating medical illness alongside dementia; title: Whether you like it or not, here's what I want. Maintaining individuality in the face of Alzheimer's; title: I would rather die at home. Living and dying with dignity; title: in the comfort of home; title: Gee, that must be depressing! My life as a physician specializing in Alzheimer's; title: trials, rewards, and lessons learned.