Mindful Dementia Care by Ruth Dennis with Velma Arellano and Luke Nachtrab

Mindful Dementia Care: Lost and Found in the Alzheimer’s Forest by Ruth Dennis with Velma Arellano and Luke Nachtrab is an informative guide for caregivers outlining the difficulties of caring for an Alzheimer’s patient, as well as effective alternative methods of therapy.

The author and her two supportive co-authors are connected with the Sierra Vista Alzheimer’s Community in New Mexico. Dennis has care responsibilities for a brother with Down Syndrome, so her wish to share knowledge about the diseases and complex problems of aging is intensely personal, and it is this personal perspective that makes this such a strong guide.

The authors’ professional observations over a number of years add depth to issues such as a patient’s need for sleep, privacy, and maybe, but not always, medication. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s are well known, and denial will only make the situation worse, so being a caregiver is about self-care, as well as taking care of another. Problems like wandering, anxiety, lack of recognition, and occasional sexual improprieties can be anticipated, but a good, safe community setting can allay the fears that lead to such behaviors, while encouraging creativity and calmness.

Given the many facts and statistics presented, including a lengthy list of further resources, and the touching accounts of memorable, mindful moments among patients, Mindful Dementia Care will be immediately useful for its actionable information, as well as its spirit of empathy for all those affected by this illness.