Alzheimer's: A Crash Course for Friends and Relatives

by Mary McDaniel Cail, Barry Petersen (Foreword)

In this moving and accessible book, author Mary Cail offers step-by-step instructions for comforting those with Alzheimer's disease, and for supporting family members who provide ongoing care. Compelling stories illustrate the challenges of from Velma, an Arkansas sharecropper's daughter, to Willa, a physician once considered a candidate for Surgeon General, and many more. Cail uses insightful strategies and "do and don't" conversation guides to deliver a realistic message of help and hope in a clear, sympathetic voice. Filled with practical and empowering advice, this book is essential reading for friends and loved ones, as well as concerned professionals and community members.

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 29, 2013

Reviews

[Jean Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

After experiencing the tragic loss of her husband, Mary Cail is drawn to work with those living with dementia and Alzheimer's. Her book is profound and almost poetic, as she describes what other writers of non-fiction about the disease write in dry bulleted lists. She touches the heart of the reader as she explains how left out the person with dementia feels, like a repeat of being the last to be chosen in gym class. In reference to the caregiver she says, "Staying upbeat is like trying to swim wearing a pair of mud boots." Thank you Mary Cail for writing such a lovely book creating understanding from all sides of the disease.