When Someone You Know Has Dementia: Practical Advice for Families and Caregivers

With a friendly, conversational voice and a frank manner, Andrews (Helpful Hints for Carers) reduces the stigma associated with dementia, reassures readers that they are not alone on the journey of caregiving, and provides thoughtful, constructive advice based on her years of research and observation as director of the Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling, Scotland. Her book is pragmatic and kind, describing best and worst case scenarios. Sprinkled throughout the book are first-person accounts, references to useful websites and books, and checklists to aid decision-making. When looking for a home for someone with dementia, for example, Andrews lists qualities and standards of care that patients might expect and explains the differences between levels of residential care. Another chapter highlights the dangers of hospital admission for dementia patients. If a loved one is admitted, Andrews offers advice on the emergency room, guerilla visiting tactics, reducing the risk of pain and delirium, how to watch for medication errors, and how to get a patient out. Although the book was written for U.K. readers, Andrews has added some North American information to this edition and much of her advice is relevant anywhere, making this an extremely useful resource. Agent: George Lucas, Inkwell Management. (May)