Is It Dementia? - Pathways for carers, families and Friends

"We were on a coach trip and I had to watch Dad every minute. He kept wandering off. Then, with the coach about to leave, I turned to find he had disappeared. I ran along the road, but there were two ways to go in this town I didn't know. Then I saw him just ambling along. I shouted at him so loudly that passers-by were horrified. I knew he couldn't help it but I was so worried."

Increasingly people with dementia are living longer and are being supported in the community either at home or in sheltered housing schemes, residential settings and nursing homes. Is it Dementia? examines the possible causes of confusion and argues for a full assessment before blaming dementia. The book gives real life anecdotes from carers about the day to day feelings experienced when supporting a person with dementia. The authors explore in very straightforward and practical ways how the environment can be adapted to support independence and well being for as long as possible. They also emphasise the significance of using the past to assist with a person's self esteem, confidence and orientation. Behaviours that are often felt as challenges to those closest to the person with dementia are explored, and thus help readers to understand and respond sensitively with support and practical suggestions. Finally they offer ways to make the most of the services available, checklists when looking for services, and useful referral points and organisations.

Is it Dementia? Is an excellent informative guide for relatives, friends, day to day paid carers and professionals, who are involved in the world of those with dementia.