Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers

"Hurricane Preparedness for Alzheimer's & Dementia Caregivers"In this special episode of GutPunched Alzheimer's & Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards addresses a pressing issue for those living in hurricane-prone areas, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Drawing from his experiences in Southwest Florida, Jeff discusses the ongoing challenges posed by hurricane season and reflects on the lasting impact of Hurricane Ian, which devastated the region just two years ago.

This week, Jeff focuses on the crucial topic of hurricane preparedness for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. He provides practical advice on how to create a safe and supportive environment during severe weather, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and emotional reassurance for those with cognitive impairments.

Listeners will learn how to assemble specialized emergency kits, maintain a calming atmosphere, and develop strategies to help their loved ones feel secure during storms. With the possibility of more storms on the horizon, this episode equips caregivers with the tools they need to navigate the uncertainties of hurricane season with confidence and compassion. Tune in for insights that prioritize safety and well-being for both caregivers and their loved ones.

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In this insightful episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards welcomes back the knowledgeable Amy Schenck, a dedicated volunteer with Neuropsychiatric Research Center of SW Florida. With her extensive experience in conducting educational programs and support groups, Amy brings a wealth of information to the table, making this episode a must-listen for caregivers and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer’s.

Taken from an engaging hour and a half conversation, Amy shares crucial insights on when and why individuals should consider getting a memory screen. She addresses common misconceptions surrounding memory issues and discusses alternative reasons that may lead to cognitive decline. With a focus on practical strategies, Amy provides valuable examples to help caregivers support loved ones who may be hesitant about seeking a memory assessment.

Listeners will appreciate the depth of Amy’s expertise as she offers compassionate guidance on these pressing topics. Due to the richness of the discussion, future episodes will continue to feature highlights from this interview, ensuring that audiences receive the most relevant information tailored to their needs.

Jeff will explain Rule #1 Take Care of Yourself and talk about the upcoming Walk For Alzheimer’s around the country.

Join Jeff and Amy for an enlightening conversation that empowers caregivers and sheds light on GutdPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers is available on The Podcast Playground; and all the the important steps to take when facing memory concerns.

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GUT PUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS  EPISODE 25

“There’s a New Leader at The Dubin Center”

In Episode 25 of "GutPunched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers," hosted by Jeff Edwards, the conversation delves deeply into the emotional and practical complexities faced by those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. 

Jeff Edwards, with his trademark sincerity, guides the discussion with empathy and insight, providing a platform for caregivers to share their stories and connect with listeners who may be navigating similar challenges. The episode offers a blend of personal anecdotes, expert advice, and community resources, aiming to offer comfort and practical support.

 The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of caregivers, while also highlighting the importance of seeking support and understanding in the journey through Alzheimer's.  

Jeff Edwards and his guest, Christine LoConte, the new executive director of the Dubin Center in Fort Myers, Florida talk about her vision and plans for the center. Christine brings a breath of fresh air and a visionary outlook to the center’s future. Jeffs conversation with her reveals exciting new directions and initiatives aimed at enhancing support for those affected by Alzheimer’s. They strive to foster a sense of solidarity and hope, reaffirming that even in the face of daunting challenges, there is a community ready to support and uplift one another.

We’ll also take a moment to spotlight World Alzheimer’s Day, coming up on September 21st. It’s a day to raise awareness and deepen our understanding of this challenging disease.

As always, we emphasize our three core rules on GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers:

Take Care of Yourself: Remember, your well-being is crucial. If you’re not healthy, who will care for your loved one?

Seek Help: Caregiving is not a solo journey. Connect with support groups, friends, and family.

Make a List:: Create a list of people who’ve offered help and another list of tasks you need assistance with. Use these lists to delegate and lighten your load.

So, settle in as we dive into this heartfelt discussion. Christine LoConte’s insights and our focus on World Alzheimer’s Day are sure to inspire and inform. Let’s get started!

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GutPunched: Alzheimer's and Caregivers Podcast - Episode 24

In today’s poignant episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer's and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards takes us on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of caregiving. We are honored to feature a conversation with Jen Caroluzzi of the ReUnite Program, an inspiring initiative in collaboration with United Way and the Lee County Sheriff's Department in Lee County, Florida. Jen’s insights shed light on innovative approaches to caregiving and community support.

We also share a moving poem from a Men’s Group in Ft. Myers, Florida, which beautifully captures the emotional landscape of those affected by Alzheimer's and the caregivers who stand by them.

Additionally, we discuss the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, a vital event that brings together individuals and communities in the fight against this relentless disease. Jeff will offer advice on how to address the heart-wrenching question many caregivers face: “I want to go home?”—providing practical and compassionate responses.

At GutPunched, we uphold three essential rules to guide and support caregivers:

Self-Care is Crucial: Your well-being is paramount. Remember, if you don’t take care of yourself, who will care for your loved one?

You Can’t Do It Alone: Seek out caregiver groups, network with friends, and lean on relatives. It takes a village to navigate the complexities of caregiving.

Organize Your Support System: Create a list of people who have offered to help and identify tasks that you can’t manage alone. This preparation ensures you have a plan in place when caregiving becomes overwhelming.

Join us as we explore these themes and more. Practical advice, and community connections to support those on the caregiving journey.

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Episode 23: "Driving with Dementia: Navigating the Roads of Change"

In this powerful episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards addresses a highly sensitive and crucial topic: driving with dementia. Joining Jeff is Steve Emerson, a former law enforcement officer and the owner of a driving school with nearly 20 years of experience in assessing drivers with cognitive impairments.

Steve shares his expertise on how individuals with brain changes are evaluated for their ability to drive safely. He explains the comprehensive process of testing, what individuals can expect during their assessment, and the criteria used to judge their driving capabilities. The conversation dives into the delicate balance between ensuring road safety for both the individual with dementia and the general public.

Throughout the episode, Jeff and Steve explore the emotional and practical aspects of this issue, including when it’s time to get tested, key signs that may indicate a driver is struggling, and the potential outcomes of the assessment. They address the tough conversations that caregivers and families may face when a loved one’s driving skills are in question, offering insights on how to handle these situations with empathy and care.

Steve's experience and Jeff's thoughtful questioning provide listeners with a clear understanding of this challenging subject, offering guidance on how to navigate the complexities of driving with dementia. Tune in to GutPunched Episode 23 for a poignant and informative discussion that sheds light on making informed, safety-focused decisions in the face of cognitive decline.

GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers on The Podcast Playground, and all major platforms. Like, subscribe, and check out GUTPUNCHED.COM for more information

This week on GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers. Your host, Jeff Edwards will dive into a crucial topic from an article titled “Helping Family and Friends Understand Alzheimer’s Disease,” with a particular focus on helping children understand the impacts of this illness. We’ll explore strategies and insights provided by the National Institute on Aging to support young ones in comprehending what a loved one with Alzheimer’s is experiencing.

This discussion will seamlessly lead us into our special interview with Sandra Kiser, an esteemed Alzheimer’s advocate who reached out to us after listening to our podcast. Sandra has a deeply personal connection to Alzheimer’s, having seen it affect her Aunt, Brother, and Mother. Her extensive experience and contributions to the field include three published books—one of which is a children's book designed to help young minds grasp the complexities of Alzheimer’s. She also created a corresponding coloring book to engage children further.

Sandra’s work is a testament to the challenges faced by children trying to understand the changes in their parents or grandparents due to Alzheimer’s. We’ll delve into how her books can be a valuable resource for families navigating these tough conversations.

We’ll also provide details on the upcoming Alzheimer’s Walk, a key event in raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research. Don’t miss it!

Join us for this enlightening episode as we discuss tools and strategies to support young people through the emotional and cognitive challenges posed by Alzheimer’s, and gain insights from Sandra Kiser’s remarkable journey and advocacy work.

In this opening episode of Season 2, GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S & CAREGIVERS join Host Jeff Edwards as he dives into crucial insights on dementia and Alzheimer’s, inspired by thoughtful suggestions from my friend BJ Odom who has been a guiding light through his own podcast, Gift Of Life: The Organ Transplant Podcast. His suggestion to interview my wife, as he did with his own, has given him much to consider.

We begin by examining the “14 Risk Factors That Can Increase Your Odds of Developing Dementia” and highlight the encouraging news about the Alzheimer’sdrug Leqembi, which shows benefits that improve over time. Get information on the upcoming Alzheimer’s Walk , all over the country.

We’re also honored to share an inspiring interview with Bunny, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2018. Despite her diagnosis, Bunny maintains a positive attitude and stays actively engaged in life. Her story is a testament to resilience and hope, and we hope you find her journey as inspiring and uplifting as we did.

 Join us as we explore these important topics and celebrate the strength and spirit of those facing Alzheimer’s. GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S & CAREGIVERS. GUTPUNCHED.COM and available on The PODCAST PLAYGROUND.

In Episode 20 of "GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers," the podcast, with host Jeff Edwards takes a deep dive into the emotional landscape of caregiving. This heartfelt episode explores the wide range of feelings that caregivers experience, including the joys and sorrows that come with supporting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. From personal stories and discussions, the episode highlights how these emotions impact both the caregivers and those they care for.

The episode also provides valuable information about recent advancements in Alzheimer’s treatment, discussing some of the latest drugs and therapies that offer new hope for managing the disease.

Listeners can enjoy a special touch of culture with a shot of “Bourrée” by Jethro Tull, adding a unique flavor to the episode.

As the season wraps up, the episode also previews what's coming next. The podcast is gearing up for Season 2, promising fresh interviews, updated information, and a revamped look on the website, GutPunched.com.

This episode is a poignant reflection on the caregiving journey, offering both emotional support and practical updates.

In Episode 19 of GutPunched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers, join host Jeff Edwards as he illuminates a path of hope and empowerment for caregivers. This episode dives into the powerful impact of diet and lifestyle changes in slowing down Alzheimer's progression. Jeff shares his own journey, where implementing these changes for his wife showed promising initial results in managing the disease.

Special guest, Craig Price from The Naples Players joins the program, bringing his positive personality and innovative approach to caregiving through improvisation and creative communication. With a background rooted in improvisational theater and caregiving for family members, Craig has developed transformative programs that foster understanding and connection between caregivers, individuals with memory issues, and their families, young and old.. His successful methods are designed to open new channels of communication, enhancing the quality of care and relationships within families facing Alzheimer's. Craig and Jeff have fun discussing the improvisation topic and the eye opening results.

Tune in to discover practical insights, inspiring stories, and effective strategies that uplift caregivers and empower them in their journey with Alzheimer's. Gut Punched Episode 19 promises to be a beacon of positivity and support, offering viewers tangible tools to navigate the challenges of caregiving with resilience and compassion.

In this impactful episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards, a radio veteran with over 50 years of experience and a dedicated caregiver for someone with early-onset Alzheimer’s, brings you an invaluable conversation packed with practical advice and emotional support.

Jeff shares two crucial rules for caregivers: the importance of self-care to ensure you can continue supporting your loved one, and the necessity of seeking help and building a strong support network.

Episode 18 features an extraordinary guest, Sue Ryan, a three-time International Best Selling Author, leadership coach, professional speaker, and educator with over 40 years of caregiving experience. Sue's acclaimed first book, Our Journey of Love: 5 Steps to Navigate Your Caregiving Journey, has been a guiding light for many. She has since developed The Caregiver's Journey, an online course, and her latest release, The Caregiver's Advocate. Additionally, Sue is preparing to launch a new podcast with a friend this August, promising even more resources and insights for caregivers.

Jeff and Sue dive deep into the essential aspects of caregiving, discussing how to balance physical, social, financial, and spiritual health. Sue shares her wealth of knowledge, offering innovative ideas and actionable advice to help caregivers thrive amidst their challenging roles.

Join Jeff Edwards and Sue Ryan for an episode brimming with wisdom, encouragement, and practical strategies to s designed to empower and guide you on your caregiving journey.

It’s a compelling discussion filled with practical tips, heartfelt advice, and the shared wisdom of those who truly understand the demands of caregiving. You’ll want to take notes for this episode.