Lifestyle Book Reviews

Book Review: Forgetting

By Sandy Amazeen Mar 18, 2008, 1:56 GMT

We have all heard jokes about losing our memory as we grow older but for millions, this is no laughing matter. Nearly everyone has wondered if they are suffering the first sign of Alzheimer’s when they can’t find their car keys or forget someone’s name, but is that really a harbinger of worse things to come? This informative reference book addresses the many cognitive issues that come with the aging process in eight chapters starting with identifying reversible and irreversible dementia. Normal brain aging, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s, MCI, depression and dementia are covered in clear non-technical language as causes, treatments and preventive measures are tackled. Especially nice are the chapters covering caregivers, falls and general advice including consent considerations. As Baby Boomers age, the importance of living wills, guardianships, do-not-resuscitate orders and hospice care are issues that must be dealt with and it is much better to do so while one is lucid. This excellent guide identifies what is normal, what isn’t, how to prevent or treat the symptoms, the pros and cons of different treatments thus providing a lifeline for caregivers and those facing the march of time.