Читать книгу The Small Guide to Alzheimer's Disease - Gary Small - Страница 5

Preface

Chapter 1: Is It Normal Aging or Something Worse?

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Common Psychological Reactions to Age-Related Memory Loss

What’s the Difference between Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia?

Symptoms of Dementia

Possible Causes of Dementia

The Brain Ages Gradually

Common Symptoms of Normal Brain Aging

Depression and Anxiety Worsen Memory

Diagnosing Major Depression

If in Doubt, Just Find Out

Chapter 2: Seeing the Doctor

Navigating Denial

Connecting with a Doctor

Doctors Who Care for Memory-Impaired Patients

Organizations for Finding a Doctor for Cognitive Issues

What to Expect at the Doctor’s Office

Summary of Assessment Procedures

Preparing for the Appointment

Information Contained in Doctor’s Notes

Medicines That Worsen Memory

Beware of Anticholinergic Drugs

Anticholinergic Medicines That May Impair Memory

The Diagnostic Process

Features of Different Types of Dementia

Laboratory and Genetic Testing

Recommended Laboratory Tests for Assessing Cognition

Diagnostic Scans

Discussing the Results of the Evaluation

Chapter 3: The Latest on Medicines and Supplements

Medicines for Treating Dementia Symptoms

Drugs for Treating Alzheimer’s Symptoms

Potential Benefits of Dementia Medicines

Getting Realistic about Alzheimer’s Medicines

Possible Side Effects of Anti-Alzheimer’s Medicines

Treatments for Mood and Behavior Problems

Potential Benefits and Risks of Supplements

Anti-inflammatory Supplements

Antioxidants

B Vitamins

Vitamin D

Melatonin

Supplements Used for Memory and Brain Health

Phosphatidylserine

Huperzine A

Apoaequorin

Chapter 4: Practical Strategies for Caregivers

Taking Away the Car Keys

Signs of Driving Trouble

Tips for Confiscating the Car Keys

Dementia and Retirement

If Dementia Interferes with Work

Money Matters

Home Safety Strategies

Fall Prevention Tips

Strategies for Reducing Agitation

Interventions for Reducing Agitation

Personal Hygiene

Getting Help

Options for Hired Caregivers

Home Alone vs. Senior Living

Technology to the Rescue

Chapter 5: The Emotional Roller Coaster of Caregiving

Coming to Grips: The Five Stages of Caregiving

Denial

Emotional Turmoil

Chasing a Cure

Grief

Acceptance and Resolve

Caregiving Can Be Dangerous to Your Health

Take a Break: Respite Care

Types of Respite Care

Getting Real about Caregiver Expectations

Staying Connected

Beware of Depression

Strategies for Beating Depression

Chapter 6: Lifestyle Habits That Protect Your Brain

Helping People Change Their Habits

The Brain-Healthy Lifestyle

Physical Exercise

Mental Stimulation

Exercise Your Neural Circuits

Computer Brain Training

Mental Benefits of Technology Use

Techniques for Improving Memory

Memorize a To-Do List

Staying Socially Connected

Balanced Nutrition

10 Nutrition Tips to Keep Your Mind Sharp

Stress Management

10 Tips for Reducing Caregiver Stress

Try This Stress-Reducing Meditation

Chapter 7: New Research: Hope vs. Hype

Searching for Treatments That Modify the Disease

Volunteering for a Clinical Trial

Checklist When Considering Enrollment in a Clinical Trial

Research on Disease Biomarkers

Examples of Biomarkers under Study for Alzheimer’s Disease

Different Strategies for Attacking the Disease

Examples of Alzheimer’s Treatments under Study

Chapter 8: Planning for the Future

When Does Genetic Testing Make Sense?

Advanced Directives

Strategies for Dealing with Conflicts over Advanced Directives

Managing Finances

Tips on Managing Money for a Loved One with Dementia

Senior Living Options

Looking to the Future while Appreciating the Present

Acknowledgments

Bibliography

Index