Dementia

A book: The 36 hour day.

I have read it twice.  Lots of info in there for families and care providers.  The best part is that we can witness it first hand by being part of the persons life.  

Methods of treatment vary depending on severity and progression.  I have found minimal verbal cues sometimes helps so the person does not get overwhelmed by input.  

This is a subject that greatly interests me.  My mother in law is in a nursing home suffering from Alzheimers.  It is sad to watch its degenerative effects but we've learned not to contradict her when she says something, like thinking her husband is still alive when he died years ago.  She remembers things from years ago but not current issues - like what she or we said 5 minutes ago!  She enjoys company so we try to keep it positive and visits short.  I highly recommend a new book:  Still Alice by Lisa Genova. It will help you understand the disease.