Alzheimer

Francesco Caracciolo was a successful architect and, with his wife Federica, also worked as photo reporter for the United Nations, travelling extensively throughout Africa and Asia. A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and Francesco's rapidly vanishing independence put an end to their travels. With thoughtfulness and honesty, Federica tells of her experience of caring for her husband during his seven-year battle with Alzheimer's. She recounts the progression of the disease in all its distressing phases, revealing the very special relationship that developed between the carer and the patient and the inevitable reversal of roles. The author describes how her initial distress and irritation gave way to compassion and tenderness, and how in the end this terrible and devastating experience turned into a love story. While never losing sight of her husband's personality, she also offers strategies for coping with the solitude surrounding the couple in a society where mental illness is still looked upon with fear and dismay. This poignant first-hand account shares with the reader the remarkable realization that it is possible to emerge from the battle with Alzheimer's undefeated and, indeed, enriched. It will offer hope and courage to those with Alzheimer's, as well as their families and friends.

Vorwort
An honest, thoughtful and ultimately hopeful account of one woman's experience of caring for her husband during his seven-year battle with Alzheimer's

Autorentext
Federica Caracciolo was born in Alexandria, Egypt, and later moved to Italy, where she met her husband, with whom she travelled extensively throughout Africa and Asia on their work as photo reporters for the United Nations. Based in Rome, Federica Caracciolo now works as a translator and editor for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN. She is also an active member of the Rome Alzheimer's Association and Chief Editor of the Association's Newsletter.

Inhalt
Foreword by Luisa Bartorelli. Acknowledgements. The story.