9 Great Books About Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a complex condition. Many families go through this journey, and learning more about the condition is a great way to be prepared. Books offer insight, advice, and valuable information. They foster understanding and empathy in an enjoyable way. 

There are plenty of options here. You can enjoy a thrilling fiction novel or a fascinating non-fiction tale documenting someone’s experience. So what are some great books about Alzheimer’s?

“Still Alice” – Lisa Genova 

“Still Alice” by Lisa Genova tells the story of a Harvard professor who faces the challenges of early-onset Alzheimer’s. The novel offers an emotional perspective on how memory loss and shifting identity affect a person—not just them, but their family, too.

It’s a window into the personal battles and adjustments that accompany this diagnosis. This novel offers an in-depth look into Alzheimer’s disease and the challenges it creates every day.

“The 36-Hour Day” – Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins 

“The 36-Hour Day” serves as a practical guide. This was created to give valuable support to caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Written by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins, it provides helpful strategies for managing daily challenges. It also helps navigate the emotional and medical aspects of caregiving. This resource is a go-to for tips on communication, stress management, and understanding Alzheimer’s disease better. 

“The Memory Keeper’s Daughter” – Kim Edwards 

Kim Edwards’ novel, “The Memory Keeper’s Daughter,” takes a unique approach to exploring the effects of Alzheimer’s and memory challenges. This story explores the ripple effects of a father’s decision to send his child with Down syndrome to an institution.

Meanwhile, the story follows the daughter’s journey as she grows up in a different environment and how it shapes her own life. The novel offers an emotional and thought-provoking perspective on the impact of Alzheimer’s on families and how small choices can shape the future.

“Alzheimer’s Through the Stages” – Mary Moller 

Mary Moller’s “Alzheimer’s Through the Stages” provides a valuable overview of Alzheimer’s and how it progresses. This book breaks the condition down into manageable steps to make everyday caregiving simpler.

Moller’s guide highlights what to expect during each stage. There’s plenty of valuable information designed to help you and your family adjust to the situation. Meanwhile, it gives advice on planning for the future, which can significantly reduce future stress. It’s a wealth of knowledge condensed into 3 easy-to-digest parts.

“The Notebook” – Nicholas Sparks 

“The Notebook,” authored by Nicholas Sparks, shares the moving love story of Noah and Allie, a couple bonded together despite the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. It artfully captures love’s ability to weather even the toughest challenges.

This novel offers hope and reflection for families walking a similar path. This tender story of love, connection, and history can be an incredible journey rich in emotion.

“Elegy for Iris” – John Bayley 

John Bayley’s memoir, “Elegy for Iris,” paints a deeply personal portrait of his life with his wife, Iris Murdoch, as she faced Alzheimer’s.  The novel describes the depths of their love and how it remained strong even through Iris’s decline.

This memoir offers a unique perspective. As it was written by someone who experienced the daily struggles caused by Alzheimer’s disease, it offers a valuable point of view. “Elegy for Iris” touches on themes of love, caregiving, loss, and more, to give intimate insight into how relationships survive when memory begins fading.

“Where the Light Gets In” – Kimberly Williams-Paisley 

“Where the Light Gets In,” written by Kimberly Williams-Paisley, recounts her mother’s battle with dementia and how her family learned to adapt. Her heartfelt reflections include moments of frustration, humor, and acceptance to create a vivid story.

This novel sheds light on ways to find joy even amidst difficult changes. It provides both inspiration and practical insights, making it a valuable resource for families beginning this journey.

“The Long Goodbye” – Patti Davis 

Patti Davis reflects on her father’s decline, former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, in “The Long Goodbye.” This story, told in memoir form, offers a firsthand point of view into grief and caregiving

This book stands as a testament to the strength of the bond between a parent and their child—even when memory loss is involved. It’s a beautiful story of love, family, and resilience.

“Passages in Caregiving” – Gail Sheehy

“Passages in Caregiving” by Gail Sheehy provides a thoughtful and practical guide for caregivers. It offers insights into caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, from diagnosis to long-term care.

Sheehy’s own experience as a caregiver inspired this book, making it an authentic and relatable resource. Her advice centers around compassion and understanding in the face of difficult decisions and emotions.

Starting the Next Chapter—Together

Books about Alzheimer’s offer more than just stories. They can act as a lifeline and show you that you’re not alone. And if you need help caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, our team at Mira Vie can help.

In our communities, your loved one can enjoy every day surrounded by a team of loving caregivers. We know how to help, and we’re here for you and your family. Schedule a tour with us today, and let’s support your loved one together.