In this episode of the Fighting Dementia podcast, co-hosts Leon, Fran, and special guest Dr. Grahame Smith, delve into living well with dementia. Fran and Tom share their personal experiences living with dementia, while Dr. Smith, an associate professor in mental health innovation, provides expert insights on dementia care. They discuss behavior changes, therapeutic strategies like problem adaptation therapy, and the importance of mindfulness and community support. The episode underscores the significance of maintaining a positive mindset and finding meaningful activities to improve quality of life for those affected by dementia.

Resources & Further Reading:

Meditation & Dementia Research:https://news.med.miami.edu/worried-about-alzheimers-meditate-and-mingle-study-says/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/a-subtle-impact/202506/meditation-could-reverse-brain-aging

SURF (Service Users Reference Forum): https://surfdementia.org/

Alzheimer’s Society: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

Carers UK: https://www.carersuk.org/

Reddit Dementia Communities: https://www.reddit.com/r/dementia/

Powers of Attorney Info (UK): https://www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Fighting Dementia Podcast

00:50 Special Guest: Dr. Grahame Smith

03:52 The Importance of Person-Centered Care

08:20 Brain Health and Preventative Measures

11:30 Nutrition and Dementia

17:52 The Role of Technology in Dementia Care

28:32 Learning New Skills with Dementia

34:50 Introducing the Leaf Story App and AI-Driven Journaling Tool

38:48 The Role of Journaling in Daily Life

40:45 Exploring Various Therapeutic Techniques

01:00:28 The Importance of Community and Peer Support

01:12:05 Concluding Thoughts and Final Remarks

In this episode of the Fighting Dementia Podcast, Fran, diagnosed with mixed dementia, hosts Marian and others to discuss the importance of water intake and the impact of healthy habits on dementia. Fran shares personal anecdotes about improving her hydration routine, while Tom and Anne reflect on their own experiences and challenges in maintaining these habits. The conversation extends to an inspirational interview with George Rook, who was diagnosed with mixed dementia 11 years ago and emphasizes staying socially engaged and learning new skills. The panel discusses the powerful feedback from their community walk, underscoring the vital role of supporters and promoting awareness on treating people living with dementia with respect. Finally, the episode teases future topics, including behaviour change support through technology and interviews with influential guests.

Resources & Further Reading:

Meditation & Dementia Research:https://news.med.miami.edu/worried-about-alzheimers-meditate-and-mingle-study-says/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/a-subtle-impact/202506/meditation-could-reverse-brain-aging

SURF (Service Users Reference Forum): https://surfdementia.org/

Alzheimer’s Society: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

Carers UK: https://www.carersuk.org/

Reddit Dementia Communities: https://www.reddit.com/r/dementia/

Powers of Attorney Info (UK): https://www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney

00:00 Introduction

04:28 Feedback from the Community Walk

07:54 Goals of the Podcast and Personal Goals

15:19 Behaviour Change and Support Strategies

25:35 George Rook Joins the Podcast

26:18 Diagnosis and Initial Involvement with Deep Network

27:07 Finding Community and Support

28:10 The Importance of Social Engagement and Brain Activity

29:03 Discovering New Hobbies and Skills

30:44 Advocacy and Leadership in Dementia Care

31:49 Challenges in Dementia Care Systems

34:29 Personal Strategies for Living Well with Dementia

45:58 Advice for the Newly Diagnosed and Their Families

47:20 Reflections and Future Plans

49:07 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In this episode, co-hosts Fran, Tom and Leon Leon share an honest catch-up on their wellbeing journeys—touching on everything from cutting out sugar and walking more, to the power of behaviour change and building new habits that support a healthy brain.

Later in the show, we welcome the inspiring Rosie Whittington, founder of the Me To You Dementia Day Centre, who shares her story as a mental health nurse turned innovative care leader, championing holistic, person-centred support for people living with dementia.

You’ll hear practical tips, a deep dive into how environment and community shape our health, and real-life stories about adapting, persevering, and finding joy and purpose—no matter where you are on your dementia journey.

Plus, we round off with Reminiscence Corner, reflecting on skill-building and the importance of social connection.

Whether you’re living with dementia, caring for someone who is, or passionate about wellbeing, there’s something here for everyone.

Mentioned in the podcast & links to further reading:

• Hydration & diet for brain health — Practical, evidence‑based tips on cutting free sugar, choosing whole foods and keeping well hydrated to support cognition and lower dementia risk; useful guidance for older people and carers. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/eating-well-with-dementia/

• Bredesen’s “reversal” approach — Overview of Dr Dale Bredesen’s metabolic protocol and case series: intriguing but preliminary and controversial, not yet established as mainstream treatment. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25414524/

• Problem Adaptation Therapy (PAT) — A short‑term, home‑based behavioural intervention for depression with cognitive impairment that reduces symptoms and improves function in trials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821902/

00:00 Water, Walking, and Dementia Care

05:41 TV Presenter Faces Health Challenge

11:11 Behavioral Science and Habit Building

17:15 Implementation Intention Strategies

23:12 Supporting Dementia Care at Home

27:31 "Empowering Patient Involvement"

34:03 Breathwork: Transformative Journey to Wellness

39:19 Golf Rediscovery Through Scientific Approach

45:35 Connecting Evidence for Effective Dementia Care

48:57 Reddit's Role in AI and Research

53:43 Promoting Supportive Society Mindset

01:02:41 Motivational Research Impact

01:04:31 Community Connection Reduces Dementia Risk

In this episode, co-hosts Fran, Tom and Leon Leon share an honest catch-up on their wellbeing journeys—touching on everything from cutting out sugar and walking more, to the power of behaviour change and building new habits that support a healthy brain.

Later in the show, we welcome the inspiring Rosie Whittington, founder of the Me To You Dementia Day Centre, who shares her story as a mental health nurse turned innovative care leader, championing holistic, person-centred support for people living with dementia.

You’ll hear practical tips, a deep dive into how environment and community shape our health, and real-life stories about adapting, persevering, and finding joy and purpose—no matter where you are on your dementia journey.

Plus, we round off with Reminiscence Corner, reflecting on skill-building and the importance of social connection.

Whether you’re living with dementia, caring for someone who is, or passionate about wellbeing, there’s something here for everyone.

Mentioned in the podcast & links to further reading:

Hydration & diet for brain health — Practical, evidence‑based tips on cutting free sugar, choosing whole foods and keeping well hydrated to support cognition and lower dementia risk; useful guidance for older people and carers. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/eating-well-with-dementia/

Bredesen’s “reversal” approach — Overview of Dr Dale Bredesen’s metabolic protocol and case series: intriguing but preliminary and controversial, not yet established as mainstream treatment. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25414524/

Problem Adaptation Therapy (PAT) — A short‑term, home‑based behavioural intervention for depression with cognitive impairment that reduces symptoms and improves function in trials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821902/

00:00 Water, Walking, and Dementia Care

05:41 TV Presenter Faces Health Challenge

11:11 Behavioral Science and Habit Building

17:15 Implementation Intention Strategies

23:12 Supporting Dementia Care at Home

27:31 "Empowering Patient Involvement"

34:03 Breathwork: Transformative Journey to Wellness

39:19 Golf Rediscovery Through Scientific Approach

45:35 Connecting Evidence for Effective Dementia Care

48:57 Reddit's Role in AI and Research

53:43 Promoting Supportive Society Mindset

01:02:41 Motivational Research Impact

01:04:31 Community Connection Reduces Dementia Risk

If you’re new here, this is the episode we recommend starting with. In this special kick-off to Series 2, co-hosts Leon, Fran and Tom interview Cherylnn Harper — described as the 'Fairy Godmother' of the podcast, she kickstarted the supportive Dementia community that Fran and Tom are part of.

This episode is all about fresh beginnings and real-life inspiration. Leon explains the renewed mission of the podcast: sharing powerful stories and practical strategies for behavior change, whether you’re facing mild cognitive decline or living with dementia.

With moving, personal accounts—Tom talks about returning to golf this summer, working in a pub, and cycling long distances, 8 years on from diagnosis; Fran shares how quick diagnosis and positive support expand her years of “living well”; and Cherylnn, reveals how community groups like Sedgemoor are transforming lives.

Listeners will hear about:

The importance of laughter, activity, and camaraderie in daily life with dementia.

How behaviour changes—like diet, social connections, and mental engagement—make a difference.

The power of peer support both for those living with dementia and the carers who support them.

Why tackling isolation and embracing community can be life-changing.

How the show will keep digging into the latest research, personal stories, and expert advice to help everyone “fight dementia” together.

If you want to learn about living positively with dementia, get science-backed advice, or simply feel part of an uplifting, no-nonsense community, you’re in the right place.

We can’t wait for you to join our journey—starting right here with Season 2, Episode 1!

What happens when someone with dementia cycles 27 miles and discovers they have "the face for a trombone"? Join hosts Leon, Tom, and Fran as they continue honest conversations about living with dementia, featuring special guests Dawn and Meryl.

Tom shares medication updates following a scan after his fall, whilst celebrating his recent 27-mile cycling achievement. The episode explores the challenging diagnostic journey, with guests describing initial misdiagnoses of depression or menopause before receiving accurate dementia diagnoses.

Dawn and Meryl discuss Dawn's Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) - the same rare dementia affecting Terry Pratchett. This condition impacts visual processing despite normal eyesight, affecting driving, reading music, and spatial awareness.

Musical therapy features prominently as Dawn and Meryl share their trumpet and trombone learning journey, with audio clips from their brass band performances demonstrating how new skills remain possible and therapeutic post-diagnosis.

The conversation addresses practical challenges including lost independence, driving restrictions, noise sensitivity, and daily tasks taking longer. Partners discuss maintaining equal relationships rather than carer dynamics, whilst finding humor in difficult situations.

Throughout, the tone remains hopeful, emphasising that dementia changes lives but doesn't end them. With community support and adaptation, people can pursue interests, learn skills, and maintain meaningful relationships.

Resources Mentioned:

Support Organizations:

• Alzheimer's Society: www.alzheimers.org.uk (0330 333 0804)
• Men in Sheds Association: www.menssheds.org.uk

Medical Resources:

• NHS Dementia Information: www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia
• Memantine medication - discuss with GP

Technology & Daily Aids:

• Amazon Alexa: www.amazon.co.uk/alexa

Cultural Resources:

• Van Gogh Museum: www.vangoghmuseum.nl
• Van Gogh Immersive Experience: www.vangoghexpo.com

Books:

• Terry Pratchett novels
• Van Gogh letters
• Fiona Phillips' Alzheimer's books

Activities:

• British Association for Music Therapy: www.bamt.org
• Cycling UK: www.cyclinguk.org

Specialist Support:

• Rare Dementia Support: www.raredementiasupport.org

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction & Welcome

00:14 - Tom's New Medication & 27-Mile Cycling Achievement

02:23 - Garden Party Reflections & Alzheimer's Society Support

05:01 - Challenging Public Misconceptions About Dementia

13:08 - Diagnostic Journey Challenges & Medical Advocacy

19:38 - Introduction of Dawn & Meryl: Valentine's Day Diagnosis

25:19 - Dawn's Occupational Health Nightmare & GP Support

43:19 - Understanding Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA)

50:02 - Daily Life Changes & Technology Adaptations

1:04:32 - "Don't Get a Puppy" - Practical Advice for New Diagnoses

1:25:52 - Community Support & Sedgemoor Group Reflections

What do you get when you combine a 27-mile cycling achievement and the discovery that having "the face for a trombone" is apparently a real thing? Just another day in the lives of people living well with dementia.

In this episode, hosts Leon, Tom, and Fran continue their candid conversations about living with dementia, joined by special guests Dawn and Meryl. The discussion covers the realities of diagnosis, medication changes, and maintaining active lifestyles despite cognitive challenges. Tom shares updates on his new medication regimen following a recent scan after a fall, whilst continuing his impressive cycling achievements - recently completing a 27-mile ride. The conversation explores the often lengthy and frustrating diagnostic process, with guests sharing how they were initially misdiagnosed with depression or the menopause before receiving accurate dementia diagnoses.

Dawn and Meryl bring a fresh perspective as they discuss Dawn's diagnosis with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) - the same rare form of dementia that affected author Terry Pratchett. They explore how this condition particularly impacts visual processing and spatial awareness, affecting everything from driving to reading music, despite normal eyesight.

The episode highlights the importance of community support through organisations like the Alzheimer's Society and local support groups. Musical therapy takes centre stage as Dawn and Meryl share their journey learning trumpet and trombone, with audio clips of their brass band performances demonstrating how new skills can be therapeutic and rewarding. Practical challenges are addressed honestly - from losing independence and driving licences to dealing with loud environments and managing daily tasks that now take much longer.

The conversation also touches on the impact on partners and relationships, challenging the terminology of "carer" versus maintaining equal partnerships. Throughout, the tone remains hopeful and pragmatic, emphasising that whilst dementia changes lives significantly, people can still find joy, pursue new interests, and maintain meaningful relationships. The episode reinforces the central message that a dementia diagnosis isn't an immediate end to living well, but rather requires adaptation and community support to thrive.

Resources Mentioned in Episode:

Support Organizations: Alzheimer's Society: www.alzheimers.org.uk  (Helpline: 0330 333 0804)

Men in Sheds Association: www.menssheds.org.uk (Community workshops for men's wellbeing)

Medical Resources: NHS Dementia Information: www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia  

NHS Memory Assessment Services (contact via your local NHS trust) Memantine (medication) - discuss with your GP or memory clinic

Technology & Daily Aids: Amazon Alexa: www.amazon.co.uk/alexa  (Voice assistant for reminders and daily support)

Cultural Resources:

Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam: www.vangoghmuseum.nl  Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience (touring exhibitions): www.vangoghexpo.com  

Books Mentioned: Terry Pratchett novels (Discworld series) Vincent van Gogh: The Letters (available at major bookstores) Fiona Phillips' books on Alzheimer's (available at major bookstores) Activity Resources: British Association for Music Therapy: www.bamt.org  Cycling UK: www.cyclinguk.org  Local brass bands and music groups (search via your local council website) Finding Local Support: Search "dementia support groups near me" on NHS website Contact your local Adult Social Services Ask your GP for local memory services referrals For Specific Conditions: Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA): Contact Alzheimer's Society for specialist support Rare Dementia Support: www.raredementiasupport.org

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction & Welcome

00:14 - Tom's New Medication & 27-Mile Cycling Achievement

02:23 - Garden Party Reflections & Alzheimer's Society Support

05:01 - Challenging Public Misconceptions About Dementia

13:08 - Diagnostic Journey Challenges & Medical Advocacy

19:38 - Introduction of Dawn & Meryl: Valentine's Day Diagnosis

25:19 - Dawn's Occupational Health Nightmare & GP Support

43:19 - Understanding Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA)

50:02 - Daily Life Changes & Technology Adaptations

1:04:32 - "Don't Get a Puppy" - Practical Advice for New Diagnoses

1:25:52 - Community Support & Sedgemoor Group Reflections

In this heartfelt episode of Fighting Dementia Podcast, we hear from Frank, sharing his perspective as a carer supporting his wife Fran through her dementia journey. Frank opens up about the gradual changes he noticed, how they've adapted their daily life together, and the importance of maintaining normalcy while accepting their new reality.

We're also joined by Dean McShane, a mental health senior lecturer and director of Merseyside Dementia Friendly Radio - the UK's first DAB dementia-friendly radio station. Dean shares fascinating insights about the power of music as a therapeutic intervention for people with dementia, explaining how personalized playlists can be more effective than medication in reducing agitation and improving quality of life.

In this heartfelt episode of Fighting Dementia Podcast, we hear from Frank, sharing his perspective as a carer supporting his wife Fran through her dementia journey. Frank opens up about the gradual changes he noticed, how they've adapted their daily life together, and the importance of maintaining normalcy while accepting their new reality.

We're also joined by Dean McShane, a mental health senior lecturer and director of Merseyside Dementia Friendly Radio - the UK's first DAB dementia-friendly radio station. Dean shares fascinating insights about the power of music as a therapeutic intervention for people with dementia, explaining how personalized playlists can be more effective than medication in reducing agitation and improving quality of life.

In this uplifting episode, Tom returns as co-host to share his experience of living with dementia for over seven years. With Fran and the group, he explores the emotional ups and downs of life after diagnosis—from loneliness and fatigue to joy, humour, and unexpected moments like carol-singing in July.

They share honest reflections and practical tips on staying active, adapting routines, and finding meaning through connection and laughter.

Whether you’re living with dementia or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, insight, and inspiration.Resources in this episode:Alzheimer’s SocietyMentioned as a key support organization.https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/ Playlist for LifeReferenced for music therapy and as an upcoming guest.https://www.playlistforlife.org.uk/Sedgemoor Dementia GroupLocal dementia community group frequently discussed (no direct, unified link; may be local to Liverpool. More info here or add your specific group).Central Library Liverpool Dementia GroupSaturday group referenced.https://www.liverpool.gov.uk/librarie...Dementia Action AllianceReferenced in context of advocacy/events.https://www.dementiaaction.org.uk/Therapy & AdviceReminiscence TherapyDiscussed as a beneficial therapy for people living with dementia.NHS Info on Reminiscence TherapyMedia, Events, & Other ReferencesMatilda (Film)Referenced during discussion about cake.Matilda at IMDbHarry Worth (Comedian)Reference to an old UK comedian known for a specific shop window routine.Harry Worth: WikipediaClassic Harry Worth Clip on YouTubeServices MentionedPrimark Quiet Shopping HourProviding dementia/autism-friendly shopping times.https://corporate.primark.com/en-gb/a...Morrisons Quiet HourAlso providing accessible shopping periods.https://my.morrisons.com/blog/morriso...Clinical ConceptsNeuroplasticityTopic discussed as a brain health concept.Alzheimer’s Society: Neuroplasticity00:00:07 – Introductions & Setting the Scene00:03:11 – Life with Dementia: Staying Positive00:07:27 – Past Lives and IdentityTalking about careers before diagnosis, loss of professional identity, and the value of sharing life stories.00:12:29 – Reminiscence Therapy and MemoryIntroduction to reminiscence therapy, short-term vs long-term memory, and how past memories surface.00:15:16 – Music, Dancing, and Staying ActiveDiscussion about Dr. Ivan’s advice, benefits of dance, singing, and laughter even without formal therapy.00:15:57 – Support Systems: Alzheimer’s Society & NavigatorsHow the Alzheimer’s Society and dementia navigators help explain symptoms, support families, and reduce anxiety.00:18:29 – Stress, Fatigue, and Coping StrategiesManaging the impact of stress on symptoms, using rest, hobbies, and routines to cope with difficult days.00:28:56 – Social Groups & CarersRecognition of carers, the importance of community groups like Sedgemoor, and the realities carers face.00:33:41 – Humor, Acceptance & New PurposeHow humor, perspective shift, and the podcast itself offer purpose and enjoyment despite challenges.00:34:45 – Music Memories & TechnologyUsing music (Playlist for Life, Alexa), how songs stick in the mind, and the practical use of reminders and prompts.00:36:19 – Changes in Diet and TasteDiscussion about changes in taste/smell, diet adaptations, cravings for sweet and spicy food.00:43:01 – Maintaining Confidence & ActivityRebuilding confidence after diagnosis, staying active, practical solutions to day-to-day challenges.00:52:44 – Daily Routines, Coping with ChangeAdapting routines, home adaptations (stairs, planning, navigation), and accidents resulting from symptoms.01:00:04 – Understanding and Preventing DementiaDiscussion on neuroplasticity, risk factors, doubts about preventability, and hopes for societal understanding.01:05:00 – Reflections, Support, and Next StepsPersonal reflections, podcast aims, advice for newly diagnosed, and plans for future episodes.