Eighty percent of persons with dementia live at home, and the family members caring for them are often overwhelmed by the enormous responsibility and the complexities of care. This book is designed to support the caregivers and help them understand the needs and feelings of the person for whom they are caring. A central focus is the goal of sustaining a loving family relationship between the caregiver and the patient.

Developed from a training program for professionals and family caregivers, this book teaches the basics of dementia care while emphasizing communication, understanding and acceptance, and personal growth through the caregiving experience. The result is a guide that integrates the practicalities of caregiving with the human emotions that accompany it.

Eighty percent of persons with dementia live at home, and the family members caring for them are often overwhelmed by the enormous responsibility and the complexities of care. This book is designed to support the caregivers and help them understand the needs and feelings of the person for whom they are caring. A central focus is the goal of sustaining a loving family relationship between the caregiver and the patient.

Developed from a training program for professionals and family caregivers, this book teaches the basics of dementia care while emphasizing communication, understanding and acceptance, and personal growth through the caregiving experience. The result is a guide that integrates the practicalities of caregiving with the human emotions that accompany it.

Even in the earliest stages of progressive dementia, patients have difficulty evaluating their own needs and engaging in appropriate activities. A therapeutic program of care, including constructive activities and behavior management, is necessary for maximizing patients' functioning and quality of life. The "Handbook of Dementia Care" and its companion "Training Manual and Video for Dementia Care Specialists" offer a complete training system for teachers and students providing dementia care in a variety of settings.

Developed at the well-known George G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family Centers, the program's instructor's manual and student handbook are organized into six teaching modules: basic information on dementia, positive interaction techniques, supportive physical environment, therapeutic activities, group activities, and family support. Each module is accompanied by a videotaped lecture and demonstration presentation to further illustrate the topic being discussed. This exciting project is a comprehensive instructional tool for dementia care professionals working in adult day centers, long-term care and residential settings, hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care agencies.