I Know You by Heart: Navigating the Dementia Journey by Angie Swetland tells the story of multiple dementia sufferers, partly in anecdotal form which focuses on the individual and partly in terms of what might, in other words, be regarded as “cold, hard facts” about the disease and its many and varied ramifications, but which here, under the loving and concerned guidance of a carer supreme, is told with warmth and empathy. The stories have been gathered from a forty-year career in elder care, much of which has been dedicated to assisting those with dementia. In this relatively short text, Swetland takes us through the various stages of this progressive and irreversible mental illness, which is debilitating on so many different levels, physical, mental, and emotional. Through it all, the essential essence of the person is, nevertheless, shown as remaining very much alive.

The formatting of I Know You by Heart by Angie Swetland is a particularly pleasing element of the book, making it so easy and welcoming to read that it is a pleasure to read at a single sitting if that is what you desire to do. The work is divided into sixteen clearly demarcated chapters, including “Recommended Reading” and “Helpful Websites.” The personal accounts of aspects of the life of dementia sufferers, told in the third person, are all given in italics, and quotes from the text are presented in boxes reflecting certain of the key points covered. In short, I Know You by Heart is highly accessible, so that carers for the elderly, at whom this work is largely directed, should easily be able to find the time and energy to read this incredibly insightful account. It is bound to give them heightened insight into the physical and mental workings of those for whom they care.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 50 million people have dementia, with nearly 60% living in low and middle-income countries, and the cases are rising astronomically every year. You may personally know of someone that is living with or has died from complications of dementia or Alzheimer's. If you are experiencing symptoms or you're a caregiver, you may feel overwhelmed, lost, or alone. Reading I Know You By Heart: Navigating the Dementia Journey by Angie Swetland will help you to better understand the nuances of this disease and the best approach to use in working through it. Angie has used her 40 years in the eldercare industry and that of a caregiver in creating this book to help ease the pathway for others along their journey. These personal stories provide a close-up account of the blessings and challenges that occur with either the patient, caregiver, family, or friends. This book is a must-have companion for learning about dementia from the different types and stages, warning signs, resources, and support, with recommended books and websites to see things through the eyes of the patient.

"To love someone is to learn their song. And sing it to them when they have forgotten -- Arne Garborg" is an excellent way to start this book. The person feels the challenges occurring with them and it's your job, whether or not you're the caregiver, to let them know that it's okay and go with them on this new adventure without judgment but with love. I was a caregiver for years as my father transitioned from one phase to another and without the proper tools, one can become confused and unsure. During this journey, I later realized that each phase was actually by God's design along with His grace. We were able to see that life is precious, each moment is special, and to embrace the times that we had together. I wish I'd had this book during that time; it would have helped tremendously. If you're a caregiver you may think that they don't understand but within their depths they do and you'll be blessed for it. Highly recommended.