The Clinical Management of Early Alzheimer's Disease

Book excerpt: The enormous human and economic toll of Alzheimer's Disease in societies in which more and more people are living into old age is well-recognized. Scientists and practitioners alike have been working to limit it. Their major focus has been patients in the later stages of the disease, when dementia is fully established. Yet patients in the early stages of cognitive decline, far more numerous, often still living independently with family members, present a bewildering variety of challenges. Bringing together leading authors with diverse expertise, this Handbook offers the first comprehensive overview of approaches to the management of early-stage issues. The authors summarize the important implications of the latest research in their own fields for: * the recognition and formal diagnosis of cognitive problems; * the assessment of specific difficulties in daily functioning; * the formulation of a management plan integrating pharmacological, neuropsychological, behavioral, and cognitive strategies; and * the facilitation and support of caregivers' efforts. All professionals involved in any way with the care of early Alzheimer's patients and their families will find this book an indispensable reference.