The Myth of Alzheimer's: What You Aren't Being Told About Today's Most Dreaded Diagnosis »

Peter J. Whitehouse, M.D., Ph.D., one of the best known Alzheimer’s experts in the world, specializes in neurology with an interest in geriatrics and cognitive science and a focus on dementia. He is the founder of the University Alzheimer Center (now the University Memory and Aging Center) at University Hospitals Case Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University where he has held professorships in the neurology, neuroscience, psychiatry, psychology, organizational behavior, bioethics, cognitive science, nursing, and history. He is also currently a practicing geriatric neurologist. With his wife, Catherine, he founded The Intergenerational School, an award winning, internationally recognized public school committed to enhancing lifelong cognitive vitality.

Daniel George, MSc, is a research collaborator with Dr. Whitehouse at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Medical Anthropology at Oxford University in England.

A leading gerontologist's provocative approach to brain aging and senility—calling for a relabeling of Age Associated Cognitive Challenges.

Elizabeth M. Wavle - Library Journal

Renowned neurologist and Alzheimer's expert Whitehouse founded the University Memory and Aging Center at Case Western Reserve University. Here, he and his research assistant, George, confront traditional views of Alzheimer's, offering new perspectives that will help readers understand what Alzheimer's disease is and isn't and providing a new framework for approaching memory loss and aging with dignity. Part 1 surveys the history of Alzheimer's, including myths and the commercialization of Alzheimer's by drug companies and celebrities. The science of Alzheimer's and treatments past and present, including the merits and effectiveness of current drugs, are detailed in Part 2, as is the world of genetics and molecular medicine. In Part 3, the authors present a new model for living with brain aging, practical information on preparing for a doctor's visit, and a prescription for successful and healthy aging across the life span based on nutrition, avoiding environmental exposures, building a cognitive reserve, and community-based activity. With suggested readings and resources for more information, this enlightening book persuasively argues for a more holistic view of Alzheimer's, i.e., it's not so much a disease or a cluster of diseases as a part of the natural changes in the aging brain. An important contribution to the literature, it is highly recommended for all public and academic libraries.

Authors' Note ix

Preface xii

Part 1 The History of a Disease 1

Introduction: Revealing the Myth of Alzheimer's 3

Chapter 1 A Gateway to the Future of Old Age 21

Chapter 2 Alzheimer's 101: Taming the Scientific Story of AD 46

Chapter 3 The Troubling Legacy of Dr. Alois Alzheimer and Auguste D. 78

Chapter 4 The Birth of the Alzheimer's Empire 91

Part 2 Science and Treatment 111

Chapter 5 Waiting for Godot: Alzheimer's Treatments Past and Present 113

Chapter 6 A Brave New World of Genetics and Molecular Medicine? 148

Part 3 A New Model for Living with Brain Aging 173

Chapter 7 Identifying Who Needs A Prescription for Memory Loss 175

Chapter 8 Preparing for A Doctor's Visit 193

Chapter 9 A Prescription for Successful Aging Across Your Life Span 219

Epilogue: Thinking Like a Mountain: The Future of Aging 264

Acknowledgments 283

Appendix 287

Notes 292

Index 303

About the Authors 316