BOOK REVIEW

THE 36 HOUR DAY
Reviewed by : MRS. SREEJA BOSE,
Psychologist, Urban Community Dementia Service,
S. Kalamassery
NANCY L. MACE & PETER V. RABINS
The John Hopkins University Press, 1998, Third Edition
 Whichever day has 36 hours ? "Every day". according to most of the caregivers of persons with dementia in the family. so much is the time and energy needed to be spent for those affected with this dreadful disease that a mere 24- hours-a-day is not enough.
 Dedicated to "everyone who gives a 36 hour day to the care of person with a dementing illness", this classic bestseller remains a Bible for such families. Citing numerous examples from real life situations, the authors offer practical and emotional help through information about the disease aspects as well as its management. Every aspect of the disease is discussed in a moving and perceptive way; right from what is dementia to Recent research developments. Ln between, the characteristics of the disease, medical and behavioural problems, coping difficulties faced by the carers, living arrangements for those afflicted persons with dementia and their families are described in an original way. The general principles and guidelines given in the book provide a vital source of information and strength for everyone who wish to go beyond dry facts to the truth of what it means to be in the shoes of a caregiver. this book should strengthen their dedication in helping their loved ones sustaining their confidence and resolve in the importance of the enterprise.
 Caring for a person with dementia can be termed as a Herculean task, even in the Indian setup with its multigenerational house holds. Combined with the ignorance of the fact that this is an illness, not an inevitable condition associated with old age, improper assessment facilities compound the problem. Even after a diagnosis is made, the families are in a blank about the symptoms associated with it. It is in the context that "The 36-Hour-Day" makes it relevance seen with its emphasis on the coping strategies. For instance, the section on "Why people with dementia to the things they do"' highlights everyday hazards to be uncounted in living with an afflicted person. In short in the battle to help another with this form of disease, knowledge is steadily increasing and more and more means of assisting are at hand-and this book provides as insight into such areas.
 Of particular interest to caregivers other than families or professionals are the up to date list of current books, videos and web sites in the appendix.
 As one goes through the entire text one perceives the need for an equivalent original view from the Indian context. As this book provides a more or less Western outlook with its emphasis on a systematized health care programme (which is practically non-existent in India) and individualized care plans. such a need is strongly felt.
 In essence, the art if caring not only involves the prolongation of life or the easing of pain, but also the goods internal to the practice of care, namely, a growing reverence for human life in all its forms and all its tribulations. This book encourages such virtues-in the sense of duties to be met, challenges to be overcome and human strengths to be overcome and enjoyed.