“Information is key:” Dr. Macie Smith shares guide to help caregivers navigate dementia challenges

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) — Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and African Americans are two times more likely to develop it, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Social worker and gerontologist Dr. Macie Smith is working to make sure caregivers are well-informed in her book, A Dementia Caregiver Called to Action: The Journey .

For with more than 24 years of experience, these statistics hit home when her own grandmother was diagnosed with dementia. “It looked totally different when it lands on your doorstep,” Dr. Smith says.

Because of her professional knowledge, she was able to guide her family through the journey, but she realized that many others were not as prepared. This inspired her to write A Dementia Caregiver Call to Action, a comprehensive yet concise guide designed to support families caring for loved ones with dementia. “It’s a resource to add support and hope to families that are living with dementia,” she said.

Dr. Smith’s book addresses the biggest challenges caregivers face, including navigating available resources and the financial burden of care. “It’s important to know that Medicare, which people receive at age 65, does not cover non-medical, long-term services and support,” she added. This includes in-home assistance for daily tasks like bathing and dressing, as well as assisted living costs, leaving families to deal with unexpected expenses.

She also emphasizes the need to recognize symptoms that go beyond normal age-related forgetfulness. “Because we all forget something here or there. It’s called normal age memory impairment. So, you know how you forget your glasses and they’re on your face. Or, you are looking for your cell phone and you’re talking on it? That’s perfectly fine because you can quickly regain,” Dr. Smith shared. While Alzheimer’s is the most common form, there are many types of dementia, including vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia, which may require different approaches to care. “And depression looks just like dementia on someone over the age of 65. But depression can be treated,” she said.

She also spoke with Shawn about the specific questions caregivers to ask and support and resources that are available.

A Dementia Caregiver Called to Action: The Journey is available on Amazon and where ever you buy your books.

Find out more at drmaciesmith.com .

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