Dementia Untangled
This podcast explores unique topics related to dementia through conversations with physicians, experts, and community leaders—focusing on innovative ideas, practical strategies, and proven methods to create a supportive path for caregivers. Reach out to us with questions or comments at DementiaUntangled@bannerhealth.com. Our renowned programs and services are made possible by the generous support of donors to Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation.
Episodes
Understanding Fall Risk in Dementia Care (with Ron Porter)
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, and for those living with dementia, the risk is even greater. In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Ron Porter, a seasoned occupational therapist, to unpack the complex relationship between cognitive decline and fall risk. Ron walks us through how dementia affects balance, spatial awareness, and decision-making — and why tra
What Life with MCI Really Looks Like (with Mike Zuendel)
What does it feel like to notice your thinking has changed — but not quite know what that means for your future? In this deeply personal and profoundly moving episode, we sit down with Mike Zuendel, who opens up about his lived experience with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) — the space that exists between normal age-related memory changes and a diagnosis. Mike's story is one of honesty, resil
Understanding How Dementia Affects the Way We Think (with Dr. Anna Burke)
When most people hear the word dementia, they think of memory loss. But the truth is, dementia reaches far beyond forgetting names or misplacing keys. In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dr. Anna Burke, Geriatric Psychiatrist and Director of the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Division at Barrow Neurological Institute, to explore the full landscape of how dementia affects the way we
What Science is Telling Us About Preventing Dementia (with Dr. Jeremy Pruzin)
We're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Jeremy Pruzin, Cognitive Behavioral Neurologist, for a conversation that could genuinely change the way you think about your brain health and your future. In this episode, we dive deep into the landmark U.S. POINTER Study (U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk), one of the most significant dementia prevention trials
Season 13 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
In this special season finale, we take a step back to reflect on the incredible journey of Season 13. Join us for an intimate behind-the-scenes conversation with Amber Ayers, the editor and producer who has been instrumental in bringing these powerful stories to life. Season 13 has taken us to unexpected places and challenged us to think differently about cognitive health. Now, Amber pulls back th
The Brain’s Plastic Problem (with Dr. Matt Campen & Dr. Eliane El Hayek)
In this eye-opening episode, we dive into one of the most alarming environmental health discoveries of our time: microplastics are infiltrating our brains—and the implications for cognitive health may be profound. Our conversation with Dr. Matt Campen, a distinguished professor and toxicologist, and Dr. Eliane El Hayek, an assistant professor at the forefront of microplastic research helps us unra
Dementia Without Borders (with Dr. Santino Severoni)
We sit down with Dr. Santino Severoni, the World Health Organization's Head of Health and Migration, to explore an often-overlooked intersection of global health crises: dementia care among refugee populations. Dr. Severoni brings his extensive expertise to illuminate the unique challenges faced by refugees and migrants living with dementia—from language barriers and cultural stigma to the tra
From Interviewing World Leaders to Leading Caregivers (with Deborah Kan)
In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Deborah Kan, an award-winning journalist and founder of Being Patient, shares how her caregiving journey transformed her from a seasoned journalist covering global events to a trusted voice in the dementia community. She opens up about the challenges of balancing her career with the demands of caregiving, the moments that challenged her, and the insig
Senior Moments or Something More (with Dr. Michelle McDonnell)
We've all experienced those frustrating moments—forgetting where we put our keys, blanking on a name, or walking into a room and wondering why we're there. But when do these everyday memory slips cross the line from normal aging into something more serious? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Michelle McDonnell, a clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in cognitive assessment and
Intervening in Alzheimer's Before Symptoms Strike (with Dr. Mike Malek-Ahmadi)
What if we could stop Alzheimer's disease before the first symptom ever appears? In this groundbreaking episode, we sit down with Dr. Mike Malek-Ahmadi, a researcher, to explore the cutting-edge frontier of pre-symptomatic Alzheimer's intervention. Dr. Malek-Ahmadi takes us deep into the science of early detection, explaining how researchers are now identifying biomarkers and brain changes
Reframing Caregiver Guilt (with Susanne White)
We asked Susanne White, founder of Caregiver Warrior, to help us explore one of the most challenging emotional aspects of caregiving: guilt. The weight of caregiving can take its toll, often leading to self-doubt, overwhelming feelings during the journey, and lingering questions long after. Susanne helps us understand the crucial distinction between guilt and shame, and why recognizing this differ
Lessons in Courageous Caregiving (with Debbie Gross)
What happens when you're simultaneously caring for children, aging parents, and managing a career — all while trying to maintain your own well-being? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Debbie Gross — daughter, mother, caregiver, dementia advocate, and small business owner — to explore the realities of what she calls "Panini Caregiving." Moving beyond the traditional &quo
When the Helper Needs Help (with Dr. Wolfgang Spangenberger)
This insightful conversation with Dr. Wolfgang Spangenberger, chief of surgery, mediator and author, explores the often-overlooked reality of caregiver burnout and the critical importance of self-care in the caregiving journey. Caregiving is one of life's most demanding roles — both mentally and physically exhausting, yet deeply rooted in compassion and the willingness to care for those we lov
Setting the Record Straight on Confabulation (with Helle Brand)
Helle Brand, a physician assistant specializing in dementia care, helps us explore the often-misunderstood phenomenon of confabulation in dementia patients. We discuss what confabulation actually is and why it's fundamentally different from intentional lying. We explore the neurological basis behind why dementia patients create false memories to fill gaps in their recollection, examining commo
Season 12 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
In this special Season 12 Revisited episode, we sit down with our editor and producer, Amber Ayers, to reflect on the powerful conversations and insights shared throughout the season. Together, we explore the themes, stories, and expertise our guests brought to the chat—and how these experiences have shaped our own perspectives both professionally and personally.From innovative updates for prevent
Exploring the Dementia Data Hub (with Dr. Melinda Power & Dr. David Rein)
In this episode, we dive deep into how comprehensive datacollection is revolutionizing our approach to dementia as a critical public health issue. Our guests, Dr. Melinda Power and Dr. David Rein, help us explore the groundbreaking Dementia Data Hub and its transformative impact on public health understanding. They walk us through this innovative free website that democratizes access to vital deme
Unique Aspects of Veterans and Dementia (with Dr. Amruta Vadnerkar & Mary De Guzman)
We explore the complex intersection of military service and dementia care with Dr. Amruta Vadnerkar, geriatrician and medical director, and Mary De Guzman, program coordinator for the COACH Program at the Phoenix Veterans Affairs Healthcare Center. Our expert guests untangle the unique exposure risks that veterans face, from combat-related traumatic brain injuries to environmental hazards encounte
Swinging for the Fences - The Future of Alzheimer's Prevention (with Dr. Robert Alexander)
An enlightening conversation with Dr. Robert Alexander, Chief Scientific Officer of the Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative at Banner Alzheimer's Institute, explores the cutting-edge world of Alzheimer's research and prevention. He takes us deep into the science behind one of medicine's most challenging frontiers. We dive into groundbreaking research studying autosomal dominant Alzhe
Navigating Transitional Stress (with Laura Vaillancourt)
Laura Vaillancourt, a licensed mental health counselor and geriatric mental health specialist, helps us explore the complex world of transitional stress for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. She shares her expertise on how our perception shapes our reality, emphasizing that "everything depends on how we make sense of what is happening to us." She guides us through pr
Firsthand Insight into Mild Cognitive Impairment (with Bob Ehlers)
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Bob Ehlers, a courageous advocate from the neurocognitive disability community, who shares his transformative journey following his diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Rather than retreating into silence, Bob has chosen to amplify his voice and inspire others facing similar challenges. Bob opens up about the pivotal moments t
The Accidental Caregiver (with Dr. Stuart Ghertner)
Dr. Stuart Ghertner, a retired psychologist, shares his story about how his professional expertise took on profound personal meaning when he became the primary caregiver for his beloved wife, Pam. He explores his unique dual perspective—both as a trained mental health professional and as a devoted husband navigating the complex emotional landscape of caregiving. Stuart discusses how his clinical t
Untangling Frontotemporal Dementia (with Susan Dickinson)
Our conversation with Susan Dickinson, Chief Executive Officer of the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), explores frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a lesser known but devastating form of dementia that primarily affects behavior and executive function rather than memory. Susan helps us understand the distinctive signs of FTD, including personality changes, social inappropriateness, an
The Spirit and Science of Alzheimer’s (with Rev. Dr. Jade Angelica)
We sit down with Rev. Dr. Jade Angelica, a compassionate minister, spiritual director, and pioneering dementia educator who brings a unique perspective to understanding Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Angelica challenges conventional narratives about dementia by exploring the unexpected gifts that can emerge from the caregiving journey. Our conversation delves into the profound concept of "the g
Strength in Storytelling (with Marcy Silva)
There's nothing more powerful than storytelling, so we asked Marcy Silva, her mother’s daughter and a caregiver, to share her experience of caring for her mother who lives with dementia. Marcy opens up about the unique challenges of caregiving in a rural tribal community, including how she incorporates cultural practices and beliefs into her routine. As a natural storyteller, Marcy takes us th
Season 11 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
In this special Season 11 Revisited episode of Dementia Untangled, we sit down with our editor and producer, Amber Ayers, to reflect on the powerful conversations and insights shared throughout the season. Together, we explore the themes, stories, and expertise our guests brought to the table—and how these experiences have shaped our own perspectives both professionally and personally. From innova
Transforming the Experience of Dementia (with Dr. Anne Basting)
Helping us explore a transformative approach to dementia care grounded in creativity, empathy, and presence, is Dr. Anne Basting, Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the visionary founder of TimeSlips. She shares her groundbreaking work using creative care techniques that help professional and family caregivers build meaningful connections with people living with dement
Nurturing your Soul on the Dementia Journey (with Dr. Rebecca Chopp)
In this deeply moving and insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Rebecca Chopp—renowned author, former university president, activist, and theologian—who is now navigating life with Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Chopp shares how she continues to nurture her spirit on the dementia journey, using spiritual practices, theological insight, and a deep commitment to living with presence and purpose. Togeth
The Convergence and Divergence of Alzheimer’s (with Dr. Crystal M. Glover)
Understanding the convergence and divergence of Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging, so we talked to Dr. Crystal M. Glover, an applied social psychologist and mixed methodologist, to untangle this complicated topic. We learn how it affects different communities in different ways, and what that reveals about the broader landscape of health and aging. We dive deep into the individual determinants
Navigating End-of-Life Dementia Care (with Stephanie Brown)
We talk with Stephanie Brown, LMSW, a hospice and palliative care expert, to explore the delicate and compassionate world of dementia care. She helps us untangle the differences between home health care, palliative care and hospice care, and unpack the philosophies guiding these services. She sheds light on holistic approaches to dementia care, emphasizing the importance of addressing the emotiona
Reduce Your Risk of Dementia (with Dr. Jeremy Pruzin)
We welcome back to the podcast Dr. Jeremy Pruzin, a cognitive behavioral neurologist, to explore the modifiable lifestyle factors that can significantly reduce your risk of dementia. From exercise and nutrition to sleep hygiene and mental stimulation, he shares practical, evidence-based strategies to boost cognitive health and protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Whethe
Empathy-Driven Care: The SPECAL Method (with Cyndy Luzinski)
We’re joined by Cyndy Luzinski, an advanced practice nurse and the executive director of Dementia Together, for an enlightening conversation about dementia care. Cyndy introduces us to the SPECAL Method, a groundbreaking approach to dementia care that focuses on person-centered care and views dementia as a simple disability, rather than a complex and intimidating condition. We explore the concept
Advocating in a Crisis (with Sarah Martin)
In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Martin, an experienced adult geriatric nurse practitioner, to discuss how to be the best advocate for your loved one with dementia and ensure they receive the best care possible. She shares invaluable advice on how to prepare for emergency situations and why it’s essential to start planning immediately after a dementia diagnosis. We dive into practical strate
Unlocking the Future of Alzheimer's Diagnosis (with Dr. Nicholas Ashton)
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 paire
Amplifying the Voices of Alzheimer’s (with Jim Taylor)
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 stig
Season 10 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
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 l
Exploring Cognitive Enhancers (with Dr. Jaclyn Robinson)
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 s
Caregiving Through Late-Stage Dementia (with Jan Riggs)
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,
Navigating a Parent’s Younger Onset Dementia (with Jaelyn Smith)
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
Losing Touch with Reality (with Dr. Alvin Burstein)
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 t
Caregiving Through Challenging Relationship Dynamics (with Dr. Sheri L. Yarbrough)
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
Finding Yourself Again After Caregiving (with Charnele Brown)
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
Exercise Your Way to a Healthy Brain (with Dr. Wendy Suzuki)
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
Exploring Non-biological Effects on Health (with Dr. J. Neil Henderson)
Exploring socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural effects on a person’s health can help us identify some of the contributing factors to what ails us. We investigate this topic further with medical anthropologist and Professor Emeritus at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Dr. J. Neil Henderson, to learn more about connecting non-biological factors like stress to dementia and other dise
A Shared Dementia Journey (with Leonard Chayrez & Mark Garrity)
Join us for an inspiring conversation from life partners on a shared dementia journey, Leonard Chayrez and Mark Garrity. When Leonard was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, the process was so long that once he had an answer about his health issues, he was ready to empower himself and get active in the community. Their experience led them to become local and national advocates for people livin
Season 9 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
Season 9 has revealed interesting themes along with inspirational and educational stories. Our hosts with special guest Amber Ayers once again discuss which episodes surprised them, which ones they felt a connection with, and what they took away from the entire season. Don’t miss this special revisited episode to gain insight into what made this season so unique, and which surprises you will have
Building a Community of Support (with Kathy Norris-Wilhelm)
When Kathy Norris-Wilhelm's wife, Jean, was diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, they knew how vital connecting with the dementia community would be for them to find their way. Kathy quickly became an Alzheimer’s ambassador and advocate, discovering the importance of building their own community of support and publicly sharing their story to raise awareness. Her inspirational story contin
Finding Joy Despite Difficulty, Part 2 (with Richard Lui)
In the second part of our conversation with Richard Lui, a veteran journalist, filmmaker, author, and family caregiver, we untangle the challenges and joys of being a working professional while caregiving for someone with dementia. His unique perspective creates an amazing storytelling experience for listeners. His advice for caregivers, and emphasis on acknowledging your role as one, give invalua
Finding Joy Despite Difficulty, Part 1 (with Richard Lui)
In this two-part conversation with Richard Lui, a veteran journalist, filmmaker, author, and family caregiver, we first discuss his documentaries “Unconditional” and “Sky Blossom,” in which he explores real stories of caregiving and mental health. Focused on closing a cultural gap and finding joy despite difficulty, he takes us through his evolving journey to bring these stories to the world, all
Balancing Safety and Independence (with Lori Nisson)
As we age, safety becomes a growing concern – not only at home, but also out in the world. Creating a safe environment while maintaining our independence can be challenging, but not impossible. We invited back Lori Nisson, a social worker for Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and Banner Sun Health Research Institute, to talk about how important considerations can be made for someone with dementia whose
The Relational Trajectory of Dementia (with Dr. R. Amanda Cooper)
Dementia is often referred to as a “family disease” because of the effect it has on not only the person living with it, but also the people who care for and about them. As the disease progresses, relationships and family dynamics can change. We connected with Dr. R. Amanda Cooper, a family communication researcher and an assistant professor at the University of Connecticut, to discuss this further
How Dementia Changes Communication (with Dr. Michelle James)
The progression of dementia changes a lot in our day-to-day lives, but one of the most complicated affected areas is arguably how we communicate. We asked Dr. Michelle James, a licensed clinical psychologist at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute with specialized training in clinical neuropsychology, to help us untangle these changes and learn what we can do to be prepared for them. She explains how we f
Bringing Light to Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s (with Diana Shula Cose)
Families supporting someone with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease can sometimes feel isolated because of the lack of resources and support within their community. After her husband Lorenzo was diagnosed, our guest Diana Shula Cose, the founding executive director of Lorenzo’s House, wanted to change that for all families on this younger-onset dementia journey. She discusses how she was inspired b
The Reality of Implementing New Treatments (with Dr. Parichita Choudhury)
As researchers push to find a cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are lots of new and exciting discoveries and drug approvals being made. We enlisted Dr. Parichita Choudhury, a cognitive neurologist at Banner Sun Health Research Institute, to answer some of our most-requested questions about what all of this means. She untangles the latest drug trial results, what the names of these drugs mean
Connecting Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia (with Dr. David Shprecher)
Inspired by his own experience with a movement disorder, Dr. David Shprecher, a neurologist and director of movement disorders at Banner Sun Health Research Institute, shares with us his passion for serving the dementia community and more specifically, those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease dementia. With about 50% of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s developing dementia, concern is high for thi
Season 8 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
Season 8 has been full of inspirational storytellers and advocates for the dementia community. Our hosts with special guest Amber Ayers once again discuss which episodes surprised them, which ones they felt a connection with, and what they took away from the entire season. Don’t miss this special revisited episode to gain insight into what made this season so unique, and which surprises you will h
Artificial Intelligence for Dementia Care (with Dr. Linda Buscemi)
The reactions of someone with dementia to certain situations may prove difficult for caregivers to appropriately respond. Psychologist and chief clinical officer of Taproot, Dr. Linda Buscemi, helps us untangle these situations of resistance and offers a technological solution that is like having a psychologist in your pocket. She explains her company’s app “Ella,” and how it uses artificial intel
Independent Living with Dementia (with Harbhajan Khalsa)
With the majority of older Americans desiring to age in place, it becomes challenging as dementia progresses to remain at home – especially if you live alone. We wanted to find out more about successful independent living with dementia, so we turned to Harbhajan Khalsa, the Dementia Capable Southern Arizona Program director. We talk about the negative effects of social isolation, how to encourage
All About Men’s Brain Health (with Dr. Robert W. Turner II)
Men are less likely to participate in Alzheimer’s research and seek a diagnosis. This lack of representation extends more specifically to Black men. We enlisted Dr. Robert W. Turner II, an assistant professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, to help us answer questions about why these conversations are so important to have. We also discuss how to create a
Exploring Age-Friendly Hospitals (with Dr. Nimit Agarwal)
Managing the healthcare of older adults, especially those with dementia, requires a different approach. We connected with Dr. Nimit Agarwal, an associate professor and Chief of Geriatric Medicine at University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix to talk to him about a “new philosophy” that physicians and healthcare workers are learning in age-friendly hospitals. The initiative is driven by focu
An Advocacy Journey (with Jamie Tyrone)
Would you want to know if you have a higher risk of developing dementia? We asked Jamie Tyrone, an author, patient advocate, and research participant to share her personal journey of discovering her genetic status after being wrongly diagnosed with a life-altering disease. Her experience has driven her to not only become a research participant, but also to share her story in her book, “Fighting fo
Yoga for a Healthy Lifestyle (with Dr. Helen Lavretsky)
Mind/body awareness can be a very powerful approach to achieving a healthy lifestyle. It can even have a positive effect on our cognitive abilities, according to Dr. Helen Lavretsky, a professor of psychiatry at UCLA. She joins us to discuss the benefits of mindful practices like yoga for people with dementia and dementia caregivers, and the different types of yoga. She also shares info about her
Untangling Caregiving (with Gerrie Jakobs)
The term “caregiver” can be interpreted in so many ways, so it’s not always easy to accept the label. We wanted to dive deeper into the caregiver perspective, so we enlisted Licensed Clinical Social Worker Gerrie Jakobs from Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. She shares with us the importance of identifying your role(s) to better navigate the journey - and preserve your own health - by using practical
Biological Sex Differences in Dementia (with Dr. Geidy Serrano)
Men’s and women’s health issues can be very different from one another, but does that apply to our brains? We untangle this complicated topic with Dr. Geidy Serrano, director of the Neuropathology Lab at the Brain & Body Donation Program at Banner Sun Health Research Institute. We explore how dementia affects our brains differently depending on our biological sex, and how recent studies have e
Writing Your Own Caregiving Story (with Jacquelyn Revere)
Everyone’s dementia caregiving journey looks different, which means everyone has a unique story to tell. We explore Jacquelyn Revere’s story as a dementia caregiver influencer who created “Mom of my Mom,” a platform that has allowed her to share her story with over a million followers across social media. She takes us through her story as a millennial caregiver who found an outlet for her passion
Season 7 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
Season 7 has been full of amazing stories and perspectives about the dementia journey and beyond. Our hosts with special guest, Amber Ayers, discuss which episodes surprised them, which ones they felt a connection with, and what they took away from the entire season. Listen in for their unique personal experiences with our guests and discover what inspires future seasons of the podcast.
What You Don’t Know About Getting a Dementia Diagnosis (with Dr. Parichita Choudhury)
Over half of all people with dementia never get a diagnosis. We untangle this issue with Dr. Parichita Choudhury, a Cognitive Neurologist at Banner Sun Health Research Institute, and discover why seeking a diagnosis is so important and how to proceed. She shares a little about the future of diagnosing and how much easier it will be to identify numerous brain dysfunctions and help people live a hig
Unlocking the Power of your Senses (with Dr. Jennifer Stelter)
Stimulating our senses like smell, sight, touch, sound, and taste can access memories locked away in our brains from years ago. We explore the power of olfactory stimulation with Dr. Jennifer Stelter, a clinical psychologist and creator of the Dementia Connection model, and how it can be used as a non-pharmacological approach to care. She explains how things like essential oils and touch can help
Do Plaques in Your Arteries Create Plaques in Your Brain? (with Dr. Craig Weinkauf)
Heart health and brain health are often linked together, and damage can come to both of these areas due to build-up of plaques. To better define the difference between the two, we talk to Dr. Craig Weinkauf, a Vascular Surgeon and Immunologist at the University of Arizona. He warns us of the effects of Carotid Artery Disease on brain health, and how his collaborative research hopes to help us bett
Creating Opportunities for Engagement (with Missy Paschke-Wood)
The importance of enriching activities in our daily lives cannot be understated, but it can be challenging to find appropriate activities for your loved one with dementia. We talk to Missy Paschke-Wood, the Community Life Director at Hacienda at the Canyon in Tucson, about her passion of connecting the arts to the dementia community and how people can thrive with the appropriate stimulation and su
Connecting Down Syndrome and Dementia (with Dr. Peter Bulova)
Dementia is the most significant health issue for aging adults with down syndrome. Professor of Medicine and Director of University of Pittsburgh Adult Down Syndrome Center, Dr. Peter Bulova, helps us untangle the common brain concerns between down syndrome and dementia, how amyloid factors in, and someone with intellectual disabilities may be at higher risk for receiving a delayed diagnosis of de
Tips, Tricks and Tools (with Dr. Christi Belden)
Everyone uses compensatory strategies in their daily lives, whether it’s recognized as that or not, to help us perform tasks in an alternative manner or by using adaptive aids so that we can be more independent. Dr. Christi Belden, a Neuropsychologist at Banner Sun Health Research Institute, helps us untangle some of the top strategies to use if you are experiencing memory or thinking difficulties
Advocating for the Diagnosis (with Nicole Bell)
The dementia journey often brings up the topic of advocacy - whether it’s for family support, financial support, or sometimes just to get a diagnosis. Our guest, Nicole Bell, the author of What Lurks in the Woods and an entrepreneur in medical devices, shares her family’s story of receiving a dementia diagnosis for her husband, and continuing to search for answers. Her honest portrayal of her care
Sleep for Wellness (with Dr. Joyce Lee-Iannotti)
Quality rest isn’t always easy to make a priority, especially when you are experiencing stress, loss, or overexertion. We talk with Dr. Joyce Lee-Iannotti, a sleep and stroke neurologist at Banner - University Medical Center Phoenix, about the importance of good sleep and the benefit for your brain. She highlights the importance of leveraging simple things on our own that can help reduce the risk
Untangling The Grieving Brain (with Mary-Frances O’Connor)
Dementia caregivers often have complicated feelings around grief and loss throughout the dementia journey. We talk with Mary-Frances O’Connor, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Arizona and author of The Grieving Brain: The Surprising Science of How We Learn from Love and Loss, about emotions and changes that come with grief. She talks us through the scientific process of under
Season 6 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
Each season we dive deeper into the dementia journey to untangle new perspectives, connections, and explanations for caregivers and the community. Season six blew away our expectations with passionate and informative conversations you won’t want to miss. Heather, Janice, and Amber talk about some of the moments that really resonated with them, and what chats inspired them to take action.
Bridging the Dementia Care Gap (with Carrie Langford)
The number of people diagnosed with dementia is far outpacing the number of specialists in the field. With more than 10 million new diagnoses each year, experts are getting creative on how to provide the best level of care to patients and their families. This week’s guest is Carrie Langford, a Licensed Master Social Worker at Banner Sun Health Research Institute. She shares the creative approach s
Can Marijuana Help Dementia Symptoms? (with Dr. Danielle Cabral)
The idea of marijuana being used for medical purposes has a storied past. As it becomes legal in more states, the stigma around it is being reduced and more are considering the applications to medical conditions. In this episode, Dr. Danielle Cabral, a double board-certified neurologist and psychiatrist at Banner Sun Health Research Institute, answers all our questions about marijuana. She even un
Improving Cognitive Performance with Your Favorite Music (with Dr. Michael Thaut)
Time and time again, we’ve heard how much of an impact music can have on our brains, so we’re talking to Dr. Michael Thaut, a professor in the faculty of music and the faculty of medicine at University of Toronto, to learn more about improving our brain plasticity and cognitive performance by listening to our favorite music. Dr. Thaut untangles the science behind this method and shares with us his
How to Make Your Home Dementia Friendly (with Jennifer Reeder)
Creating a safe environment for someone with dementia is a top priority, especially when your loved one wishes to stay in their own home while they can. Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, the Director of Education and Social Services at Alzheimer’s Foundation of America helps us identify simple, helpful ways to make your home more dementia-friendly. She shares some key elements to be mindful of that make it e
Representation Matters: Dementia in the Arts (with Steven Drukman)
In this special bonus episode, playwright Steven Drukman untangles his soon-to-be world premiered play, Pru Payne. Exploring the experience of Prudence, a woman diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Steven shares his inspiration for creating his vibrant characters and their story, as well as his own personal journey with dementia in his family. He encourages us to “live in the moment” with this inspirationa
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