Alzheimer Dementia Books: Helpful Reading for Families, Carers, and Caregivers

Once loved ones receive a dementia or Alzheimer's diagnosis, life can feel like something of a foreign country. Families can ask questions on memory loss, communication, day to day life, changing behaviour and emotional needs of caring. At a time like that, the right books can offer information, reassurance and a sense of others having gone through something similar. Family, carers and caregivers may find value in Alzheimer dementia books that offer them practice and real-life understanding.

The book, Fleeting Moments & Magic Memories by Joanne, is one example that is particularly relevant, being a collection of personal experiences from a dementia support group and a self-help section for caregivers. Joanne's book has developed from her quest to volunteer with a Dementia Café and subsequently to lead a supportive group which she knew and loved as her second family.

 

Knowing more about dementia than just memory loss

Losing memory is common with dementia, although it can have a wide range of implications on a person's life. In Joanne's book, she tells us that the effects of dementia are not limited to memory but can impact emotions, behaviour, perception, communication, mobility and other functions and that each person's experience is unique.

A wider view is significant for families. Awareness of the brain's role in behaviour can help carers to be more patient and empathetic when dealing with new situations.

 Learning from real family experiences

An excellent feature of Alzheimer dementia books is that they allow you to hear from those who are living with the disease.

In Fleeting Moments & Magic Memories, Joanne compiles the stories from her group, including that of the John and Margaret. In time, Margaret had memory problems and was assessed in a Memory Clinic and diagnosed with Alzheimer's. They tell a story about how the diagnosis impacted upon their daily life and how they changed their lifestyle.

These personal accounts can help readers realise that there is no single way to experience dementia. Every family is unique and may face some different situations, needs and challenges.

 Practical tips for carers

The usefulness of information is heightened when it is applied to daily activities. Joanne also provided an entire chapter in her book entitled “A Self-Help Guide for Caregivers”, with information on topics like health and wellbeing, when to seek more help, dementia, the brain, common challenges, emotional needs, home supports, nutrition and support services.

The book offers lots of helpful tips such as having the important stuff within sight, boards and calendars, clutter-free, familiar surroundings, and lighting, contrast and safety around the house.

These ideas exemplify the importance of making small changes to the environment to help manage a day-to-day life.

 The Importance of Support

Being a caregiver for a dementia sufferer can be a challenging situation that is emotionally and physically exhausting. Families might believe they have to do it all on their own, but it can make a huge difference to have some help.

Joanne's involvement with Magic Memories Friendship Group illustrates the importance of being able to meet others who are in similar situations. Groups can offer friendship, an activity, communication and opportunities for carers to share their experiences without feeling isolated, all of which are described in this book.

This is especially significant for the caregivers, who might neglect their own wellbeing after getting so involved with the person they are supporting.

 Moments of Normality in an Unusual Place

Not all great activities need to end because someone has been diagnosed with dementia. Joanne's book tells the stories of how they tried to keep the familiar routines, socializing, music, outings and hobbies going.

For instance, John and Margaret started to have rituals with puzzles, going out, visiting the theatre, and spending time together. These activities helped them to be structured, enjoy and be as normal as possible.