Forgetting: When to Worry, What to Do

Breitung, a nursing specialist who has written several books on care for the elderly, has written this guide for caregivers who must deal with the effects of cognitive decline disorders such as Alzheimer's and Late-Life Depression. The author provides detailed explanations on the differences between normal brain aging and dementia, and helps readers to understand options when it comes to assisted care, prevention strategies, risk reduction and environmental modification. A chapter is devoted to palliative and hospice care, and legal documentation such as living wills, do-not-resuscitate orders and conservatorships. Annotation c2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Joan Carson Breitung, RN, MA, MSN (Springfield, MA), is a board member of the Greater Springfield Senior Services, Inc., and a member of the leadership committee of the Alzheimer’s Association West in Springfield, MA. She is the author of six books, including Understanding and Managing Dementia, which won a 2005 British Medical Association Award.