I AM MY FATHER'S KEEPER

Arnazzi’s brief debut chronicles her experiences with her father, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.

Unfortunately, Arnazzi’s story is hardly unique; according to the author, there are some four and a half million Alzheimer’s victims in the United States alone, and “most of them are cared for by family members, by someone like you and me.” Arnazzi, a doctor who has worked in gerontology and is an advocate for alternative methods of care, writes from the point of view of both a medical professional and a caregiver, which adds a unique dimension to the work. Arnazzi combines stories of her personal experiences with Alzheimer’s disease, structured around 10 steps readers may follow to help make the caregiving process more bearable. Each chapter focuses on one step, supplemented by tales of related interactions Arnazzi has had with her father and family members. Although many of the 10 steps may seem obvious (“Be Proactive,” “Know Your Resources”), Arnazzi provides solid counsel throughout. The vignettes are complemented by helpful bits of wisdom, such as: “Laughter is the great diffuser, the uplifter, and the consoler. See the humor in every situation.” The author reveals intimate details aimed at helping readers to understand how Alzheimer’s disease affects both patients and their families. At the end of each chapter is a list of “empowering principles” that may offer additional inspiration. Arnazzi ends the book with a suggested reading list, as well as useful resources with more information about Alzheimer’s disease, senior care, alternative health care, research and treatment centers and more.

An engaging Alzheimer’s-disease guidebook that may provide solace to patients and their loved ones.