Reviewer: Winifred Dollear, RN, MPH (University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine)
Description: This book is a good source of understandable information about Alzheimer's Disease. The question and answer format is direct and easy to understand. This is the second edition — the first was published in 1997.
Purpose: The objectives of the book are described well in the preface — to raise pertinent questions and provide clear, concise answers about Alzheimer's Disease.
Audience: This book is written for non-clinicians, as well as healthcare professionals. The content section of the book is well done and can easily be indexed by the average non-clinician.
Features: The key feature of the book is the directness of the information. The question and answer format is very helpful to the non-clinician experiencing the early signs and symptoms of dementia. Chapter I presents Alzheimer's Disease from the perspective of the initial concern an individual may have of cognitive impairment and continues on to provide an excellent comparison of types of memory loss or forgetfulness. The description of the diagnostic criteria for dementia of the Alzheimer's type and the expectations of care are critical pieces of information for the non-clinician. The causes of dementia are described. There are a few black-and-white pictures demonstrating change that occurs in the brain of an individual with Alzheimer's disease. Chapter VII legitimizes caregiver emotions. Also, a good explanation of the stages of Alzheimer's disease is given, and resources for assistance are identified. Chapter V includes a discussion of the risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. Generally, the information is good. The explanation of genetics is not clear and would be best explained by a clinician.
Assessment: This book would be my choice compared with other books on the topic because each chapter provides useful information that would allow the non-clinician to feel comfortable to ask further questions of the clinician.
