Author(s): Brian Draper

Growing Older

The most contemporary book on dementia with a special focus on Alzheimer's disease.

We live in an ageing world. The average life expectancy in Australia is now far beyond the allotted 'three-score years and ten'. Age-related conditions are increasingly impacting on our community, with enormous personal, social and economic costs.

Around 165 000 people in Australia are now suffering from dementia and the prospect of becoming senile is one that genuinely terrifies people contemplating a lengthy old age.

It is important to remember, however, that while most dementias are currently irreversible, this does not mean that they are untreatable. Dealing with Dementia offers a down-to-earth, comprehensive and compassionate resource for anyone struggling to come to terms with a diagnosis of dementia and what it means.

Filled with practical advice on drug treatments, complementary therapies and residential or respite care, Dealing with Dementia will be an invaluable tool for anyone worried about their own symptoms or those of a loved one.

Dr Brian Draper is an old age psychiatrist (psychogeriatrician) and the Assistant Director of the Academic Department for Old Age Psychiatry at Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney. He has published widely on the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, depression in old age and carer stress.