Speaking of Alzheimer's

On today’s episode we’re continuing our discussion on caregiving and how each caregiver’s journey is unique. We’re joined by Betsey Bianchi from Killington, VT and Virginia O’Leary from Pittsfield, MA. Betsey is a caregiver for her mother, Jenny, and Virginia is a caregiver for her partner, Kirk. The two share their unique experiences, challenges, and tips for other caregivers. They also chat about their involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the sense of community it brings to them.

On today’s episode we’re discussing caregiving and how each caregiver’s journey is unique. We’re joined by Amanda Caroluzzi from Newtown, CT and John Newby from Harpswell, ME. Amanda is a “sandwich generation” caregiver currently caring for her mother who is living with Alzheimer’s while also raising a one-year-old son. John is a caregiver for his wife, Venus, who is living with younger-onset Alzheimer’s. The two share their unique experiences, challenges, and tips for other caregivers. They also chat about their involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and how it has become a therapeutic experience for them. 

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Sarah Barclay from Newport, Rhode Island and Stuart McLeod from Needham, Massachusetts who both faced the heartbreak of a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and turned their grief into action. Sarah’s family founded the Block Island Walk to End Alzheimer’s in honor of their mother, Sandy, and Stuart began his own fundraiser called The Washburn Challenge in honor of his sister, Sara. The two discuss the how they found purpose through raising funds and awareness, and the importance of helping fund Alzheimer’s research in the new era of treatment.  

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode, we’re unpacking the latest breakthroughs in dementia research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in Philadelphia last week. We’re joined by Dr. Rebecca Edelmayer, Vice President of Scientific Engagement for the Alzheimer’s Association, to discuss developments in blood tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, how GLP-1 drugs (a class of drugs help with diabetes and weight loss) may also protect the brain, advances in tau research, and more. 

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we're joined by Kerry Dennis from Auburn, NH, and Leah Farley, from Hopkinton, NH, who are both living with younger-onset Alzheimer's and found friendship with one another in an unexpected way. The two discuss how they met and how they've been able to lean on each other while at similar places in their journey with the disease. They also share some advice on how you can show up for a friend who was recently diagnosed.

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On this special episode we’re discussing the new FDA-approved drug Kisunla (donanemab) for the treatment of people living with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. We’re joined by Dr. Margarita Reyes, a physician at Bristol Health Group in Connecticut, who explains how Kisunla works, the difference between Kisunla and Leqembi, side effects, and much more. 

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode we’re joined by Katie Brandt from Portsmouth, RI, whose husband Mike was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) at 29 years old. Her difficult journey led her to become a passionate advocate and a professional in the dementia and caregiver space – Katie is well known as a dementia care expert, powerful public speaker and educator. We discuss the difference between Alzheimer’s and FTD, the symptoms of FTD, how to talk to a physician when you’re concerned about changes in your loved one, and more. 

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Barbara Meehan from Wareham, MA, a former caregiver for her late partner Faye who launched an LGBTQ caregivers support group. We’re also joined by Neil Babitch, a member of Barbara’s support group and caregiver for his partner Roger. The two share their experiences navigating their journey with the disease as members of the LGBTQ community, and how the support group has helped create a safe, inclusive environment. We also discuss the unique challenges when placing a loved one in a long-term care facility.  

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today's episode, we're joined by Boston-based neurologist, researcher, and author, Dr. Andrew Budson, for a conversation about normal aging and dementia in honor of Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month. We discuss memory changes due to normal aging versus the warning signs of dementia, why you should go to the doctor if you're experiencing memory concerns, and the theory of consciousness and dementia.

To register for an upcoming educational program featuring Dr. Budson, and a free virtual educational series in honor of Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, visit alzwareness.org.

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re highlighting the younger generation pursuing careers in the field of aging and dementia research. We’re joined by Elizabeth Kensinger, psychology and neuroscience professor at Boston College (BC), Victoria Fisher, a researcher at BC, and Josue Velasquez Higueros, a graduating student at the BC School of Social Work & a Spier Fellowship recipient. We discuss the interest of younger adults in making a difference for the aging population and future generations. We also talk about the long-term impact of COVID-19 on aging populations as well as the need for education surrounding Alzheimer’s and dementia among underserved communities. 

Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).