"By defining Alzheimer's Disease as a spectrum disorder---like autism, it affects different people differently---Dr. Gayatri Devi offers new hope for its millions of sufferers. A neurologist who's been specializing in dementia and memory loss for more than 20 years, Dr. Devi shares the stories of her patients in the kind of narrative medical writing that grips the reader, humanizes the science, and offers equal parts practical wisdom and advice. She explains the importance of an early diagnosis; drugs and therapies that can help manage the disease; and how to cope, from maintaining independence to the best ways to fight depression and apathy. There are chapters on sexuality, genetics, communication, even staying on the job---because through her practice, Dr. Devi knows that the majority of Alzheimer's patients continue to live and work in their communities. They babysit the grandkids, drive to the store (or own the store), serve their clients, or otherwise live fulfilling lives."--Back

"Imagine finding a glimmer of good news in a diagnosis of Alzheimer's. And imagine how that would change the outlook of the 5 million Americans who suffer from Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, not to mention their families, loved ones, and caretakers. A neurologist who's been specializing in dementia and memory loss for more than 20 years, Dr. Gayatri Devi rewrites the story of Alzheimer's by defining it as a spectrum disorder--like autism, Alzheimer's is a disease that affects different people differently. She encourages people who are worried about memory impairment to seek a diagnosis, because early treatment will enable doctors and caregivers to manage the disease more effectively through drugs and other therapies. Told through the stories of Dr. Devi's patients, The Spectrum of Hope is the kind of narrative medical writing that grips the reader, humanizes the science, and offers equal parts practical advice and wisdom with skillful ease. But beyond the pleasures of great r