The spectrum of hope : an optimistic and new approach to Alzheimer's disease and other dementias / Gayatri Devi, MD.

Includes index.

Do I have Alzheimer's? Identifying memory disorders and the importance of early diagnosis -- I have Alzheimer's, now what? Alzheimer's as a spectrum disease and using a multipronged treatment approach -- Whether I have Alzheimer's disease is nobody's business but my own: when and how to share the diagnosis -- Do I need to quit my job? Continuing to work with dementia and knowing when to retire -- Who says I can't drive? Maintaining independence and dignity in Alzheimer's -- Will I pass this on to my children? The genetics of Alzheimer's and paths to prevention -- Do I face special challenges as a woman?: Gender and Alzheimer's -- I just don't care about anything anymore: treating depression and anxiety in dementia, and what to do about apathy -- I'd be crazy not to be paranoid! Apraxia, paranoia, and other frustrating behaviors, and how to effectively communicate when logic doesn't work -- I'm not lost, I'm on the road less traveled: why not to worry about wandering -- I can't take it anymore! Advice to caregivers, self-care, stress reduction, and when to seek additional help -- I think my husband is cheating on me with my aide: navigating sexuality, suspicion, affairs, and special arrangements -- Should I go to the hospital if I'm sick? Treating medical illness alongside dementia -- Whether you like it or not, here's what I want: maintaining individuality in the face of Alzheimer's -- I would rather die at home: living and dying with dignity in the comfort of home -- Gee, that must be depressing! My life as a physician specializing in Alzheimer's trials, rewards, and lessons learned.

"Imagine finding a glimmer of good news in a diagnosis of Alzheimer's. And imagine how that would change the outlook of the 5 million Americans who suffer from Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, not to mention their families, loved ones, and caretakers. A neurologist who's been specializing in dementia and memory loss for more than 20 years, Dr. Gayatri Devi rewrites the story of Alzheimer's by defining it as a spectrum disorder--like autism, Alzheimer's is a disease that affects different people differently. She encourages people who are worried about memory impairment to seek a diagnosis, because early treatment will enable doctors and caregivers to manage the disease more effectively through drugs and other therapies. Told through the stories of Dr. Devi's patients, The Spectrum of Hope is the kind of narrative medical writing that grips the reader, humanizes the science, and offers equal parts practical advice and wisdom with skillful ease. But beyond the pleasures of great reading, it's a book that offers real hope. Here are chapters on how to maintain independence and dignity; how to fight depression, anxiety, and apathy; how to communicate effectively with a person suffering from dementia. Plus chapters on sexuality, genetics, going public with the diagnosis, even putting together a bucket list--because through her practice, Dr. Devi knows that the majority of Alzheimer's patients continue to live and work in their communities. They babysit their grandkids, drive to the store (or own the store), serve their clients, or otherwise live fulfilling lives. That's news that 5 million people are waiting to hear"-- Provided by publisher.