The Alzheimer's Family

Responding to families’ questions and fears with compassion. Typically the patient—and his or her course of treatment—are the natural focal points when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). But Alzheimer’s is an equally debilitating illness for family members and caregivers who must come to terms with its far-reaching emotional and physical burdens. In this handbook, clinicians are taught how to navigate the many interpersonal issues at the heart of AD—that is, how to work with the families and friends of the patient. Santulli addresses everything from how to respond compassionately to their likely questions and concerns, how to clearly explain symptoms and risk factors, when to suggest consultation with a geriatric specialist, and how to sensitively discuss issues of long-term treatment and care.