LOS ANGELES, March 17, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- The effects of Alzheimer's disease are not only devastating to a person's identity and quality of life but will profoundly affect the caregiver and all family members, as well. The person diagnosed, however, isn't the only person stricken by this debilitating illness. In Betty Weiss' new book, When the Doctor Says Alzheimer's: Your Caregiver's Guide to Alzheimer's and Dementia (now available through 1stBooks), she offers a companion to caregivers who sacrifice nearly everything to be a helpful support system for their loved ones stricken with the disease.
Weiss, who spent 10 years as a caregiver to her husband, Bernie, has written a book for caregivers that she wishes she would have had when her husband was first diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She includes excellent resources, including Web sites, phone numbers and addresses for finding help. She explains things in layman's terms and cuts through the confusion that medical and technical books can bring.
Most importantly, however, is her unique approach to offering psychological help for caregivers, who struggle with inner conflicts, such as overwhelming guilt, the need to be a martyr and the sadness and humor of everyday care giving. "Yes, it's OK to laugh, sometimes things are just so darn funny," Weiss writes.
As people are living longer, Alzheimer's is being diagnosed at an alarming rate, and that means more and more caregivers are giving every ounce of energy to their loved ones. "When the Doctor Says Alzheimer's is a reassuring partner with easy to find resources for caregivers as they move along this unwelcome road, to help them when they don't know where to turn and are bewildered and frightened by the delusion, accusations and hostility of their loved ones."
This exhausting disease is pulling more and more caregivers into its relentless wake, and it is crucial that caregivers find a support system for themselves. When the Doctor Says Alzheimer's is a great guide for those devoting their lives to their loved ones.
Three months after the book was completed, Weiss' husband died of Alzheimer's. They lived a happy life in Los Angeles and had a son, a daughter and two grandchildren. She published numerous articles in newspapers and magazines, but When the Doctor Says Alzheimer's is her first book.
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