June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness month

We have compiled book lists for all ages to read during June (and the whole year) to spread awareness and learn about different aspects of Alzheimer’s Dementia and Brain Health. These lists are just a small sample of the books and resources available, if you would like more recommendations contact the library or stop by to talk to a librarian

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How do Dementia and Alzheimer’s differ?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they actually have different meanings. Dementia is not a specific disease. It’s an umbrella term that describes a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms affect people’s ability to perform everyday activities on their own. Common symptoms of dementia include:

• A decline in memory
• Changes in thinking skills
• Poor judgment and reasoning skills
• Decreased focus and attention
• Changes in language
• Changes in behavior

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but it’s not the only one. There are many different types and causes of dementia, including:

• Lewy body dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Vascular dementia
• Chronic traumatic encephalopathy
• Parkinson’s disease dementia
• Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
• Huntington’s disease
• Mixed dementia

While dementia is a general term, Alzheimer’s disease is a specific brain disease. It is marked by symptoms of dementia that gradually get worse over time. Alzheimer’s disease first affects the part of the brain associated with learning, so early symptoms often include changes in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more severe and include confusion, changes in behavior and other challenges.

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, and currently no cure is available.

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Resources

The Alzheimer’s Association has an extensive resource list for living and dealing with all aspects of Alzheimer’s and information for caregivers.
The Alzheimer’s Association also offers a searchable database of support groups
and has a 24/7 Helpline live chat or call 800-272-3900

Family Caregiver Alliance has an extensive resource guide for Dementia Caregivers and also offers online support groups for caregivers to connect with others who are facing similar struggles

The National Alliance for Caregiving offers support and resources for all caregivers, but dementia caregivers will find the Brain Health Conversation Guide particularly helpful

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers helpful information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias

Cleveland Clinic’s Healthy Brains initiative offers individualized brain health assessment tools, lifestyle tips, news on the latest developments in research and medicine, and more.

Dementia Friendly America is a national network of communities, organizations and individuals seeking to ensure that communities across the U.S. are equipped to support people living with dementia and their caregivers. They also offer an extensive list of resources for people living with dementia.

Memory Cafés

Located in hospitals, libraries, senior centers, and other locations, memory cafés offer support for those with dementia and their caregivers to help them combat social isolation and connect with others who are coping with similar circumstances. The Memory Café Directory lists hundreds of memory cafés located throughout the U.S.