By Angela G. Gentile, Canada, M.S.W., R.S.W.
In 2015 I wrote my first book on caregiving that went on to be my best-seller. In typical social worker style, I used a therapeutic self-help style approach based on my education and experiences working with caregivers. Now, in 2023, I am thrilled to announce I have totally revamped that first book and “Alzheimer’s, Dementia, & Memory Loss: A Helpful Guide for Caregivers” is now available in both paperback and eBook.
Sometimes I would get feedback on my earlier book, “Caring for a Husband with Dementia,” resulting in people asking me, “Where is the book for us husbands?” and “Where is the book for me? I am a daughter of a parent with Alzheimer’s.” It got me thinking.
Writing a book that would help ALL caregivers and care partners, whether they be a partner, spouse, child, grandchild, niece, nephew, sibling, or friend was a challenge I put upon myself. I started my search for a male caregiver who was interested in helping me revamp my book.
Brent Hoag and I became friends through an online dementia caregiver support group that I managed. He was a prolific writer about his experiences caring for his lovely wife Sally. He agreed to help me with my new book project, and he became a major contributor.
“Alzheimer’s, Dementia, & Memory Loss: A Helpful Guide for Caregivers” (2022) is a completely revised, revamped, and expanded version of “Caring for a Husband with Dementia.” I have used inclusive language so that anyone reading it will be able to relate.
With the help of Brent and some proofreaders, areas where I needed to change up the language were spotted. In addition, Brent was able to add anecdotes throughout the book to highlight and explain things. His vulnerability and eagerness to share some of his innermost feelings and experiences really brings this title much added value.
Brent’s chapter on humour is sure to get people chuckling. He recognized the first book I wrote on the subject was sorely lacking this important coping tool that he has used to help cope with the sometimes embarrassing and awkward situations he has found himself and his wife in.
Brent also wrote a beautiful, but sad (and popular) poem called, “Sail On”. It is a touching account of his feelings of losing (not physically but emotionally) Sally to Alzheimer’s disease. Ambiguous loss causes so much sadness for family members. Grieving for the living and the long goodbye are often referenced by loved ones.
“Alzheimer’s, Dementia & Memory Loss” includes 21 chapters which have information and tips including helping you understand the early signs and the diagnosis process, helping you cope with and manage difficult behaviours, recognizing caregiver stress and burnout, and preparing and dealing with the end stages including the harsh realities.
Less-often written about topics are also included in this newest book. In addition to Brent’s piece on “Lighten Up! Humour as a Coping Strategy,” I have included chapters on “Delirium and the Older Adult,” “Problem Drinking,” “When It’s No Longer Safe to Drive,” and “Doggy Dementia” (the last one is a story about our late furry friend, Rocky who lived to be 16 years old).
Like my first book on caregiving, “Alzheimer’s, Dementia, & Memory Loss” is a unique, informative, and therapeutic self-help style of book. The book offers an opportunity to make it personal for the reader. There is space to reflect upon and record answers to important questions. Don’t know what to “Google” to find your local resources? I’ll help with that, too. There is a listing of helpful and important resources, plus more.
My hope is that this book reaches those who are in need of education, support, and tips on how to navigate and cope with the difficult and heart-breaking situation of caring for a loved one with dementia.
About the Author
Angela G. Gentile, M.S.W., R.S.W. is a clinician, older adult specialist and author who has more than 25 years of experience working with older adults and their families in a variety of capacities. She currently runs a part-time private practice and enjoys writing, traveling, making and selling jewelry and gifts, photography and exploring what it means to age well. She has written seven books to date. She is a realistic optimist who lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba with her husband and has two adult children.
Website: www.AngelaGGentile.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialworkerangela
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelaggentile/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AngelaGGentile
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.ca/Angela-G-Gentile/e/B00V0Y7KTY/
Smart Bio: https://smart.bio/angelaggentile/
For reference:
https://alzauthors.com/2016/11/23/this-self-help-book-for-caregivers-educates-supports-and-comforts/
One Response
Hi! Here is a link to Brent Hoag’s poem turned into song, “Sail On.” https://youtu.be/TyRAhRZ4ud0