Alzheimer's from the inside out / by Richard Taylor, Ph.D.

Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease profoundly alters lives and creates endless uncertainty about the future. How does a person cope with such a life changing discovery? What are the hopes and fears of someone living with this disease? How does he want to be treated? How does he feel as the disease alters his brain, his relationships, and ultimately himself? The author provides illuminating responses to these and many other questions in this collection of provocative essays. Diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at age 61, the former psychologist courageously shares an account of his slow transformation and deterioration and the growing division between his world and the world of others. With poignant clarity, candor, and even occasional humor, more than 80 brief essays address difficult issues faced by those with Alzheimer's disease, including the loss of independence and personhood, unwanted personality shifts, communication difficulties, changes in relationships with loved ones and friends, the declining ability to perform familiar tasks. This exploration into the world of individuals with Alzheimer's disease is for anyone affected personally or professionally by the devastating disease. Individuals with early stage Alzheimer's disease will take comfort in the voice of a fellow traveler experiencing similar challenges, frustrations, and triumphs. Family and professional caregivers will be enlightened by his revealing words, gaining a better understanding of an unfathomable world and how best to care for someone living in it.