Scot Warpool, Founder
“If you’re not sure what you’re supposed to know yet, you’re in the right place.”
Books for New Caregivers
Books to Help You Navigate Dementia Caregiving
If you’re just starting out, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by options. These books are widely trusted and offer practical, compassionate guidance. You don’t need to read them all—start with one that fits where you are right now.
Start Here (Most Helpful for New Caregivers)
The 36-Hour Day – Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins, et al.
A foundational guide for understanding dementia behaviors, daily care challenges, and what to expect as the condition progresses. This is often the first book recommended to new caregivers for a reason.
Dementia Caregiver Guide – Teepa Snow
A practical, easy-to-follow resource focused on real-life caregiving situations. Especially helpful for learning how to respond to behaviors with empathy and skill.
Alzheimer’s Through the Stages – Mary Moller, MSW, CAS
Breaks down what to expect in each stage of the disease, helping caregivers prepare for changes before they happen.
After You Understand the Basics...
Creating Moments of Joy Along the Alzheimer's Journey – Jolene Brackey
A powerful reminder that connection and meaningful moments are still possible, even as the disease progresses.
Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s – Joanne Koenig Coste
Focuses on communication techniques that reduce frustration for both caregivers and those living with dementia.
The End of Alzheimer’s – Dale Bredesen
Explores research and prevention strategies. Best approached as a broader perspective on brain health rather than a step-by-step caregiving manual.
Still Alice – Lisa Genova
A novel that offers a deeply human perspective on living with Alzheimer’s. Many caregivers find it helpful for building empathy and understanding.
Web Reources
Web Resources for New Caregivers
FROM THE WEBSITE:
For more than 40 years, the Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) has provided expert support, resources and guidance to family caregivers of adults with physical and cognitive impairments, such as Parkinson’s, stroke, Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
From assessment, care planning and direct care skills, to wellness programs, respite services, legal/financial consultation vouchers and more, we’ll guide you to the services you and your loved one need.
FROM THE WEBSITE:
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.
FROM THE WEBSITE:
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most critical public health issues in America. That’s why the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM), the Alzheimer’s Association and our advocates are unrelenting. We fight to support Alzheimer's and dementia research funding and advance bipartisan legislation that will have a positive and meaningful impact on people living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers today and in the future.
FROM THE WEBSITE:
VISION: UsAgainstAlzheimer's envisions a world without Alzheimer's where brainspan equals lifespan.
MISSION: Catalyze change in the health ecosystem to improve dementia prevention, early detection, and access to treatments through advocacy, policy, convening, and high-leveraged programs, with a particular focus on health equity.
FROM THE WEBSITE:
Alzheimer’s Speaks is a Minnesota-based advocacy group supporting family caregivers and professionals as well as being a media outlet making an international impact. Our goal is to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort by giving voice to all and raising those voices to enrich lives by sharing critical information, personal stories, resources, products, and tools from people and organizations at all levels around the world.
National Dementia Advocates
If you’re new to dementia or caregiving, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Below is a curated list of trusted experts, widely respected books, and leading organizations to help guide you. Follow and connect with them on LinkedIn and other social platforms to learn from their lived experience, stay informed, and feel less alone on this journey.
Teepa Snow
Recognized globally as a premier authority on dementia education. Her distinguished reputation stems from:
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Developing the acclaimed Positive Approach to Care framework
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Consulting with medical institutions on a global scale
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Presenting as a leading voice at major industry summits
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Extensive influence across clinical teams and home care providers
Her hands-on techniques offer unmatched support for daily caregiving success.
Dale Bredesen
One of the most recognized Alzheimer's researchers in public-facing advocacy.
Why he matters:
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Author of the bestselling book "The End of Alzheimer's"
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Frequently appears at national brain health and dementia conferences
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Influential in prevention and risk-reduction discussions
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Regularly cited by advocacy organizations and caregiver communities
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Some aspects of his protocol remain debated, but his influence is undeniable.
Lori La Bey
A major grassroots advocacy voice.
Why she stands out:
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Host of one of the longest-running dementia-focused media platforms
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Regular moderator and panelist
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Amplifies voices of caregivers and people living with dementia
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Strong presence in advocacy coalitions and awareness campaigns
Among independent advocates, she is exceptionally visible.
Maria Shriver
Perhaps the most influential public-facing awareness advocate.
Why she matters:
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Founder of the Women's Alzheimer's Movement
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Frequent speaker and moderator
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Has brought Alzheimer's and caregiving into mainstream media
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Strong influence on philanthropy, awareness, and women's brain health initiatives
She has arguably reached audiences that traditional advocacy groups cannot.
To keep this resource free for all caregivers, some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend books, products, and services that are highly rated or have been vetted for their value to the caregiving community. Your support through these links helps sustain the research and writing required to provide this content. Thank you for your support!