Understanding Learning Disability and Dementia

The chapters are informative, well written and clearly structed, each with a summary paragraph so clinicians can decide if it's a relevant read...I really enjoyed this book. I learnt a great deal and am sure other clinicians new to this area will too. -- Speech and Language Therapy in Practice
This book provides a good introduction to learning disabilities and dementia and will be of use to those working in dementia care as well as in learning disability services. -- PMLD Link

Diana Kerr's book defines learning disability and dementia and the relationship between the two, and examines the difficulties in reaching a diagnosis, especially in the early stages.

The book provides powerful information, illustrated by case studies, about the support needs of individual patients, and about the challenges that carers may face. The information is delivered in a practical but insightful manner. Chapters focus on communication, challenging behaviour, medication, pain and dealing with relatives, carers and the frequently overlooked group, a patient's peers. The book highlights models of care and how to support someone during the later, difficult stages of their condition.

Ms Kerr clearly has vast experience of working with people with a learning disability and those with dementia. This easy to understand book would make an excellent resource text for a community home staff team, NVQ student or a relative or carer of someone with this testing diagnosis.

-- Nursing Standard
An examination of the issues which arise when a person with learning disabilities develops dementia. Aimed at professionals, planners and service providers. -- BILD Newsletter