New Book Asks Caregivers to Look Past Dementia—and See the Person
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SHERMAN, Conn. - Hartok -- When someone is diagnosed with dementia, conversations often center on what will be lost. But what if some of the most important lessons about dementia care come from the people living with it?

That question is at the heart of Looking Past Dementia: Learning from Those Who Live with It (https://emeraldlakebooks.com/dementia) by dementia educator and former memory care coordinator Marysue Moses. Released August 25 by Emerald Lake Books, the book has already received a 2026 Readers' Choice Book Award Silver Medal in Adult Nonfiction.

Drawing on more than twenty years of experience in dementia care and her own family's journey, Moses challenges readers to look beyond symptoms and diagnoses to recognize the personality, emotions, abilities and humanity that remain. Through true stories and practical insights, she demonstrates ways to communicate more effectively, respond to challenging situations and create meaningful moments of connection.

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Moses's approach has roots in an unexpected place: the theater. Before entering dementia care, she studied theater in London, worked with the Illusion Theater in Minneapolis and co-founded Theatre at Work. When her mother's dementia diagnosis led her into memory care, she drew on skills such as storytelling, improvisation, presence and careful observation to connect with people experiencing cognitive changes.

Throughout Looking Past Dementia, readers meet people whose stories demonstrate that dementia does not erase the capacity for friendship, humor, purpose, affection or love.

"Looking Past Dementia offers a much-needed new vision of caring for people living with dementia," said Susan H. McFadden, PhD, Professor Emerita of Psychology, cofounder of Fox Valley Memory Project and coauthor of Dementia-Friendly Communities. "This beautiful work reverberates with messages of hope."

For Emerald Lake Books founder and publisher Tara R. Alemany, that message also resonated personally.

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"I have had both family members and friends live with dementia, so I know how helpless the people who love them can sometimes feel," Alemany said. "But I've also watched a family member care for his wife by continuing to make room for the things that have always brought her joy—listening to the symphony, spending time with her dogs and family, and rocking a baby doll much as she once cared for babies while volunteering in a NICU. When I read Marysue's book and saw so many of those same principles reflected in her stories and recommendations, it became personal for me. I knew this was a book I wanted Emerald Lake Books to help bring into the world."

Looking Past Dementia is available in paperback and ebook formats. Learn more and find purchasing options at https://emeraldlakebooks.com/dementia.