The Problem of Alzheimer's: How Science, Culture, and Politics Turned a Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It

Having participated for the past few years in some of the Alzheimer's studies at UPenn, I wanted to see what one of their key researchers had to say. I got the book around mid-day in the mail and here, some 11 hours later, I finished it. Such a great repository of material - and well-written, too. In one place, this book details the history of the disease(s), the politics and world situations that impacted research getting to where it is today and where the author hopes things are going in the future.We do not yet have a "miracle drug" that can make Alzheimer's magically go away. And we have not gotten the funding that will help the millions of caregivers who often face financial (and emotional) ruin as they take part in the care of a loved one. But as we understand it more and begin to address some of the nuances of this insideous disease, we will continue to make progress. A book such as this one will help.My grandmother died in the "Connecticut General Hospital for the Mentally Insane" as it was called at the time. She was confined and it was hard to visit her in the final days of her life (she passed away in her 60s). My father died at home in a hospital bed that was located in the living room. His was not the same type of death as his mother's (he was in his mid-80s). But watching the slow downhill slide was just as difficult.It was for these reasons, and thus being of higher risk of developing Alzheimer's myself, that I decided to participate in Alzheimer's research - to hopefully become part of the solution for unnamed others in the future.It doesn't matter whether you or any of your family members or acquaintances have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Your being educated about the causes and effects of it will help you respond when you encounter others who either have it or are dealing with it from a caregiver's perspective. A book such as this will help put things into perspective so that you can react with care and concern instead of withdrawing from the situation. I highly recommend it!

I found about this book through an article in Barron's, and immediately pre-ordered it. I am dealing with my father's care with my mother as the caregiver, so the book had a personal interest. I have read SM's Emperor of All Maladies, and this compares very favorably. This is a much shorter, more recent exploration of the disease, treatments, how we got here, and where we go. It is immensely informative and readable. Jason has performed a herculean public service in writing this. I owe him a debt.

Jason Karlawish's eloquently chosen words and beautifully written narrative are very needed for a much larger world to gain understanding of Alzheimer’s disease. He provides a meticulous account of the history of science as it pertains to dementia, the politics that shift around our nation’s focus, and the myriad of unique ethical issues it poses, while never looking away from the tremendous suffering that families bear. It is a major contribution to the field.

I don’t doubt the veracity of this book, and applaud the author for his courage in calling out the many and senseless tragedies of this disease. As someone though who has lost a grandmother and mother and is also at high risk for the disease myself, I found it depressing. I began skipping sections and just put the book down altogether. My hope is that the book will lead to change, although sadly I fear it won’t. The economics aren’t compelling enough yet...

As a geriatrician, I feel strongly that this is the most important book about dementia I have ever read. As a human who cares about preserving dignity with aging, especially in the setting of dementia, I feel all humans should read this book. Given that 1 in 3 older adults will die with some form of dementia, we will all be touched by this disease. Dr. Karlawish beautifully articulates the history, challenges and societal needs surrounding this disease while leaving you feeling inspired and hopeful.

I have read many books about Alzheimer's and other types of dementia. This is one of the best. It's thorough, well-written, and engaging from beginning to end as Karlawish lays out a multi-faceted story of how we got to the place we are today with plenty of brain images and not much in the way of drug treatments. This is not just a tale of the history of scientists addressing the complexities of what was called "senility" before the 20th century. It's also a riveting story of the politics of funding their research, the frustrations of people with the diagnosis and their families, and the cultural milieu that continues to stigmatize all types of dementia.

I thoroughly enjoyed this exceptionally well written and engaging story of Alzheimer's disease, its profound impact and progress in diagnosis and treatment. This is not the story of a miracle cure, but rather one of discovery and call to action to adapt our health system in order to better help these patients and their caregivers. Karlawish provides great historical detail, many great anecdotes and a physician's compassionate wisdom. This is a very special book.

So many of us have loved ones and friends living with dementia, and it is so, so hard. This book helps. The stories are as inspiring as they are heartbreaking. The writing style is beautiful. Most important of all--the author challenges the medical community's and society's response to dementia. He reminds us what all loving family members and caregivers know: people living with dementia deserve dignity, love, and our respect.