NEW
BETTER NURSING HOME CARE
By Donna M. Reed
Prometheus Books, 2009
215 Pages

The author has worked as a nursing assistant and LPN, and now is an attorney. She presents information gained from first-hand experience in her work in nursing homes. Information is offered regarding the legal requirements that protect residents.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Discuss how the typical nursing home operates
• Discuss the responsibilities of each nursing home employee
• Explain how nursing home inspections work
• Discuss how to avoid substandard care

THE EMOTIONAL SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR CAREGIVERS
Barry J. Jacobs, Psy.D
The Guilford Press, 2006
261 Pages

While this book is directed at caregiving for aging parents, the advice is applicable to virtually all caregiving. The book is organized around the story of a caregiving family and its cancer-ridden matriarch.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Define Commitments One Can Live With
• Identify Sources of Emotional Support and Hands-On-Help
• Discuss the Challenge of the Hope for Recovery and the Acceptance of Reality. 

LONG TERM CARE (HOW TO PLAN AND PAY FOR IT)
345 Pages
A Consumer's Guide to Choosing and Financing Long-Term Care
Joseph Matthews, Nolo Press, 7th Edition, 2008

Health care providers are called upon to assist in long-term care decisions.  This can involve providing information on how to protect assets, evaluation of nursing home insurance policies, home health care, non-nursing home residences, and a nursing facility.  Additionally, information is usually needed on Medicare/Medicaid and other benefit programs.  This is an excellent professional and personal reference.

• Decisions about Long-Term care
• At Home Care
• Nursing Facilities
• Medicare/Medicaid/Veterans' Benefits
• Protecting Choices about Medical Care and Financing

MANAGING PAIN BEFORE IT MANAGES YOU
184 Pages
By Margaret A. Caudill, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H.
The Guilford Press, 3rd Edition, 2009

The author has worked for many years with chronic pain sufferers and has developed a program to help people reduce pain and learn coping skills. She presents step-by-step techniques and helpful activities. Includes many forms and worksheets which can be used with clients and patients.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the causes of chronic pain
• Discuss what causes increases/decreases in pain symptoms
• Discuss the importance of communication skills and proper nutrition in dealing with pain

MOM'S OK - SHE JUST FORGETS
The Alzheimer's Journey from Denial to Acceptance
By Evelyn McLay and Ellen P. Young
Prometheus Books, 2007
182 Pages

This book is about all who suffer from Alzheimer's Disease and their caregivers, especially family members. Emphasis is given to the importance of the caregivers taking care of themselves. Most of the difficult decisions families must make are discussed.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the Role of Denial in Dealing with Alzheimer's Disease
• Define Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
• Explain the Importance of having the Caregivers Also Care for Themselves

PLANNING FOR UNCERTAINTY
Living Wills and Other Advance Directives
by David John Doukas, M.D. , and William Reichel, M.D.
Johns Hopkins University Press, 2nd Edition, 2007
124 Pages

People of all ages need to document and communicate clear decisions about the final details of their lives -- when they are healthy. This book will help individuals provide this information to caregivers and family members. A question-and-answer format helps to guide one through this process.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to explain:

• Advance Directives
• The Healthcare Decision-Making Process
• The Patient Self-Determination Act

SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE & GOVERNMENT PENSIONS
464 Pages
By Attorney Joseph Matthews with Dorothy Berman
Nolo, 13th Edition, 2008

This is a concise guide which explains these programs in plain English. Several Social Security programs, Veterans Benefits, Medigap Insurance and Medicaid programs are covered. Provides valuable information for clients/patientse seeking these types of benefits.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain a variety of government benefits programs
• Explain work credits
• Explain Medicare, Parts A, B & D