The 36-Hour Day: a Family Guide to Caring for Persons With Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementing Illnesses, and Memory Loss in Later Life, by Nancy L. Mace, M.A. and Peter V. Rabins, M.D., M.P.H. 

Thirty years ago, when many of us were not even aware of Alzheimer’s Disease, and the Alzheimer’s Association was in its early years, the authors of The 36-Hour Day were out front leading the way in support of the many families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Revised and updated in its 25th year, this book is just as important today as it was when first published. Beyond its support of those caring for persons with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, The 36-Hour Day is full of ideas and guidance for all caregivers of the elderly.

It doesn’t matter how old we are, when it comes to our parents, we seem to always feel like a child. As our parents age, the roles begin to reverse, but the transition is neither quick nor simple. How do we know when it’s time to step in? What sorts of behavior should we be looking for? How do we address the issues without offending or angering them?

The best recommendation is to start having conversations with your loved one before they need help. These discussions should be related to several aspects of your loved one’s responsibilities. Where discussion is not possible, take opportunities as they arise to observe how they are handling the activities of daily living.