In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Nicholas Ashton, senior director of Banner Research's Fluid Biomarker Program, to dive deep into the cutting-edge world of Alzheimer's biomarker research. We explore how advancements in diagnosing Alzheimer's without directly touching the brain are revolutionizing the field. Dr. Ashton breaks down the significance of clinical symptom analysis paired with innovative biological testing methods—ushering in a new era of Alzheimer's diagnosis. Breakthrough blood tests are creating new opportunities for earlier Alzheimer's detection, expanding beyond research to everyday clinical practices. We also discuss how these innovations are accelerating the recruitment process for clinical trials, speeding up the development of new treatments. 

We connected withJim Taylor, President and CEO of Voices of Alzheimer's, to discuss his personal journey as a care partner for his wife, Geri, who has Alzheimer's disease. Jim opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and the deep emotional bond that sustains him and Geri as they cope with the complexities of a new life with Alzheimer's. He shares his powerful advocacy for reducing stigma, emphasizing the importance of telling their story, and finding ways to create a "new normal" as a couple. Jim also speaks passionately about the critical need for community support, the role of clinical trials in advancing research, and the importance of participating in efforts to find a cure. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, love, and the power of collective action. 

In this milestone 100th episode, Heather and Janice take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of the podcast over the past ten seasons. This special episode brings a heartfelt look back at the conversations, insights, and stories that have shaped the show, with guest Amber Ayers joining them for an inspiring discussion. We celebrate all the shared voices, experiences, and knowledge, and look ahead to what’s next as we continue exploring, educating, and untangling the complexities of dementia in the seasons to come. 

We have a lot of questions about brain health supplements and we knew that inviting Dr. Jaclyn Robinson back to the podcast was the best way to get them answered. Join us as we delve into the latest research on substances and strategies designed to boost brain function, improve memory, and enhance focus. Dr. Robinson, a geriatrician at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, shares insights on natural and synthetic options, including the potential benefits and risks. If you’re curious about brain health and preventing dementia, this episode provides valuable information and resources to help you make informed decisions.  

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Jan Riggs, a dedicated caregiver navigating the transitions of caring for her husband, who is in the late stages of Lewy Body Dementia. Jan shares her deeply personal journey, offering insights into the emotional and practical aspects of caring for someone with advanced-stage dementia. She opens up about the joys and struggles of maintaining connection, prioritizing quality of life, managing her changing role, and finding resources in the community. Whether you're a caregiver, a loved one, or simply curious about the realities of dementia care, Jan's story is sure to resonate.  

At just 16 years old, Jaelyn Smith, a daughter and advocate, has been a pillar of support for her mom and dad, demonstrating incredible maturity and strength as she helps her dad manage the challenges of younger onset dementia. This journey, while deeply rewarding, also brings unique challenges and emotional struggles that many young caregivers face. She was able to find support through an online network that has given her the opportunity to shine a light on her dad’s disease and make connections across the country with other youth caregivers. 

Dementia can lead to a host of cognitive challenges, including disorientation and confusion. Among these symptoms, delusions—false beliefs that are strongly held despite evidence to the contrary—are particularly distressing for both the person diagnosed and their loved ones. We welcome Dr. Alvin Burstein, a psychiatrist renowned for his work in dementia care and mental health, to help us explore the complex interplay between dementia and delusions. Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or simply curious about the intersections of mental health and cognitive disorders, this episode promises to provide valuable perspectives and practical advice. 

Becoming a caregiver to someone with dementia isn’t always a smooth, planned process. Sometimes strained dynamics in a care relationship can be difficult to overcome, so we connected with Dr. Sheri L. Yarbrough, a former policy analyst turned family caregiver, to learn more about navigating this. She talks about her experience with her mother and offers her three lessons for caregivers, reminding us that “you may not have a choice in what you are experiencing, but you do have a choice in how you live the experience.” 

When Charnele Brown’s mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Charnele knew that as an actress, director and producer at the height of her career, she had a decision to make. Choosing to be her mother’s caregiver to ensure her comfort and happiness became her new priority, and like so many other caregivers, it consumed her. After her time caring for her mom, she chose to channel her experience into her play, “For All We Know,” sharing her stories and lessons learned about the journey and herself while ensuring others that they are not alone.  

Physical activity not only helps improve mood, increase energy levels, and decrease depression and anxiety, but could it be the most transformative thing you can do for brain health? After feeling the need to add more physical activity in her own life, Dr. Wendy Suzuki, dean of the College of Arts & Science at New York University, became interested in how powerful exercise could be for people with all levels of cognition. We explore the science behind her findings and how her personal experience inspires her to help us make our brains “fat and fluffy,” to stay as cognitively healthy for as long as we can.