Preface -- Chapter 1: Is It Normal Aging or Something Worse? -- What Is Alzheimer's Disease? -- Common Psychological Reactions to Age-Related Memory Loss -- What's the Difference between Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia? -- Symptoms of Dementia -- Possible Causes of Dementia -- The Brain Ages Gradually -- Common Symptoms of Normal Brain Aging -- Depression and Anxiety Worsen Memory -- Diagnosing Major Depression -- If in Doubt, Just Find Out -- Chapter 2: Seeing the Doctor -- Navigating Denial -- Connecting with a Doctor

"Alzheimer's Disease and related dementia illnesses are among the most frightening diagnoses in the US, affecting nearly six million adult Americans. This accessible guide starts with providing readers with an overview of Alzheimer's Disease and dementia: what it is, who gets it, how to recognize it, major causes (genetics, environment, etc.). As bestselling author of The Memory Bible and The Memory Prescription, as well as Director of the UCLA Longevity Center, Dr. Gary Small is on the cutting edge of breakthrough treatments, as well as prevention strategies." --

Doctors Who Care for Memory-Impaired Patients -- Organizations for Finding a Doctor for Cognitive Issues -- What to Expect at the Doctor's Office -- Summary of Assessment Procedures -- Preparing for the Appointment -- Information Contained in Doctor's Notes -- Medicines That Worsen Memory -- Beware of Anticholinergic Drugs -- Anticholinergic Medicines That May Impair Memory -- The Diagnostic Process -- Features of Different Types of Dementia -- Laboratory and Genetic Testing -- Recommended Laboratory Tests for Assessing Cognition -- Diagnostic Scans -- Discussing the Results of the Evaluation

Chapter 3: The Latest on Medicines and Supplements -- Medicines for Treating Dementia Symptoms -- Drugs for Treating Alzheimer's Symptoms -- Potential Benefits of Dementia Medicines -- Getting Realistic about Alzheimer's Medicines -- Possible Side Effects of Anti-Alzheimer's Medicines -- Treatments for Mood and Behavior Problems -- Potential Benefits and Risks of Supplements -- Anti-inflammatory Supplements -- Antioxidants -- B Vitamins -- Vitamin D -- Melatonin -- Supplements Used for Memory and Brain Health -- Phosphatidylserine -- Huperzine A -- Apoaequorin

Chapter 4: Practical Strategies for Caregivers -- Taking Away the Car Keys -- Signs of Driving Trouble -- Tips for Confiscating the Car Keys -- Dementia and Retirement -- If Dementia Interferes with Work -- Money Matters -- Home Safety Strategies -- Fall Prevention Tips -- Strategies for Reducing Agitation -- Interventions for Reducing Agitation -- Personal Hygiene -- Getting Help -- Options for Hired Caregivers -- Home Alone vs. Senior Living -- Technology to the Rescue -- Chapter 5: The Emotional Roller Coaster of Caregiving -- Coming to Grips: The Five Stages of Caregiving -- Denial

Emotional Turmoil -- Chasing a Cure -- Grief -- Acceptance and Resolve -- Caregiving Can Be Dangerous to Your Health -- Take a Break: Respite Care -- Types of Respite Care -- Getting Real about Caregiver Expectations -- Staying Connected -- Beware of Depression -- Strategies for Beating Depression -- Chapter 6: Lifestyle Habits That Protect Your Brain -- Helping People Change Their Habits -- The Brain-Healthy Lifestyle -- Physical Exercise -- Mental Stimulation -- Exercise Your Neural Circuits -- Computer Brain Training -- Mental Benefits of Technology Use -- Techniques for Improving Memory