Learning to speak Alzheimers

Mental Health Nursing,  May 2004  by Watkinson, Anne

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Learning to speak Alzheimers JK Coste, ISBN O 09 188672 4, Vermilion, London (2003) $16.80 240 pp

From the outset, this book states that it gives 'non-specific, general advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for proper medical consultation'.

However, the author has lived through the diagnosis of Alzheimers and consequent death of her husband, and has shared her experience with many sufferers and their carers.

The core theme is that of habilitation - creating an environment in which the patient can enjoy feelings of success. It emphasises the need for a correct diagnosis as early on in the disease as possible. As the disease progresses the author encourages carers to 'focus on what remains, and not to seek after that which is lost.'

Habilitation is viewed from five perspectives: making the physical environment work; know that communication remains possible; to focus on remaining skills; live in the patient's world, with respect to behavioural changes and to enrich the patient's life.

It is a very positive and encouraging book, and I believe confirms many of the standards of good nursing care, such as: patients' autonomy, respect and enrichment of life in the face of illness. I feel, however, that its usefulness would be more appropriate to carers and relatives of patients with Alzheimers, rather than professional care-givers.

This book has been written for the American audience, but it does list UK organisations under Further Resources.

Anne Watkinson

Copyright Community Psychiatric Nurses Association May 2004
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