Age of Aging

What is it Like to be Dan?


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Over the past year, the Age of Aging has spoken with expert clinicians who study the brain, as well as individuals living with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. We believe that these two perspectives are essential for fully understanding dementia in 2025. 

In today’s episode, we hear from someone who can speak to both perspectives. 

Dr. Daniel Gibbs is a retired neurologist and author currently living with Alzheimer’s disease. Joined by his wife and caregiver, Lois Seed, he sat down with Age of Aging Executive Producer Dr. Jason Karlawish to discuss Dan’s experience. While the two physicians have had repeated conversations over the years concerning Dan’s diagnosis, Lois’ presence highlights how the disease has progressed and how their relationship has taken on new caregiving dynamics. 

What you will hear is an authentic depiction of living with Alzheimer’s disease, along with insights on how a partner begins to care for that person’s changing mind. 

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below 

  • Read A Tattoo on My Brain: A Neurologists Personal Battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
  • Watch the documentary, A Tattoo on My Brain 
  • Learn more about Dan and Lois’ story  (American Heart Association) 
    • Read Dr. Daniel Gibbs’ blog  
    • Special thanks to Daniel Gibbs, MD, PhD, and Lois Seed for being a part of this episode.  

      The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharpe. 

      The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsor, the TIAA Institute. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging. 

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