By Mr. Sherman P Macdaniel, Review by Adam V. Ratner, MD, FACR

Welcome Stranger: Alzheimer’s Caregivers Guide

By Mr. Sherman P. Macdaniel A Brief Review by Adam V. Ratner, MD, FACR

“A Powerful Book to Help Your Patients Care for Their Loved Ones Suffering from Dementia”

Dementia is increasing in prevalence as our population ages. By default, many dementia patients are cared for by their spouses and family members who may be your patients. The burdens on caregivers are enormous and most are unprepared to succeed in this role. Caregivers, though well-meaning, are typically frustrated and not optimally effective in dealing with loved ones with dementia. As physicians, we are often at a loss to help our patients navigate the challenges of becoming and sustaining the role of caregiver.

Mr. Sherman Macdaniel, the grandson of 1917 BCMS president, Alfred McDaniel, MD, wrote this brief guide to begin to address the challenges of being an Alzheimer’s caregiver. He states that the purpose of this book is to help Alzheimer’s caregivers reduce stress and anxiety. He does this by relating his personal challenges and experiences of taking care of his late first wife and provides very practical yet compassionate and spiritual suggestions for caregivers in similar circumstances.

In addition to practical tips on caring for the dementia patient, he also provides insights on managing guilt, frustration and sadness often experienced by caregivers. In addition to his own experiences, he also draws on the wisdom and experiences of knowledgeable friends to create this brief guide.

I am sad to say that Mr. Macdaniel recently passed away this past October, near the end of his ninth decade of life. He spent much of his final decade researching, writing, distributing and updating Welcome Stranger, as well as speaking to other caregivers of dementia patients.

You and your patients can also download and read a free copy of the book in English or Spanish by going to The Patient Institute website (http://www.patientinstitute.org/alzheimerscaregivers-guide/)

Physical copies of Welcome Stranger may be obtained by contacting:

The Patient Institute

PO Box 781971

San Antonio, TX 78278-1971

Adam V. Ratner, MD, FACR is Professor of Radiology, Health Policy & Medical Humanities and Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives at UIWSOM, and served as the 2019 President of BCMS. He is also an active member of the BCMS Publications Committee.