Getting old is difficult enough without the added burden of mental and behavioral challenges. If depression, Alzheimer's disease and other dementias send caregivers into a tailspin, just think how the sufferers must feel. Emotions for both can run the gamut from sadness and frustration to downright fear.
As an elderly person's behavior becomes puzzling, strange and out-of-character, caregivers will face some daunting decisions. Armed with knowledge about the diseases and where to go for help can ease the trauma.
Though this chapter concentrates on depression and Alzheimer's disease, there are many other illnesses that can cause mental, emotional and behavioral aberrations. Before caregivers jump to any conclusions, a complete health analysis is mandatory.
More Information:
