Untangling Alzheimer’s & Dementia, an AlzAuthors Podcast

In a health crisis, we often refer to our journey as a "battle." We may see ourselves as "warriors." This is true for those impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia. The diagnosis brings uncertainty, disruption, and fear. But what happens when you're dealing with dementia in the middle of a war zone? When airstrikes are the norm, and screeching sirens interrupt each day, warning you to seek safety and shelter in a minute or less? When ordinary life ceases and the top of mind issue is simply staying alive? Avoiding disaster? Breathing? On October 7th, Miriam Green, an AlzAuthor living in Israel, found her life as a caregiver turned upside down when terrorists invaded her country. In this podcast, she shares with us the horror and brutality of what occurred, how her country, her family, friends and community have been affected by this conflict, and how they are dealing with it. She is a mother, daughter, grandmother, and wife, and like most women juggles her responsibilities as best as she can on a good day. Now, she struggles to find peace in the chaos, searching for meaningful, uplifting moments, even hope, while carefully balancing her family's needs. We are grateful to her for speaking with us. We take no sides in this conflict and pray for a peaceful resolution soon. In this episode, you will: Learn how Miriam finds brief moments of solace and peace in the midst of warSee how her mother's care community maintains a routine and stability for their patients even in the most challenging of circumstances, giving them a sense of familiarity and security.Discover the unique challenges faced by caregivers who are helping to raise grandchildren while caring for aging parents in war timeGain insights into the power of hope and resilience in the face of adversity, and learn how to nurture these qualities within yourself and your care recipients About Miriam Green Miriam Greenis the author of The Lost Kitchen: Reflections and Recipes from an Alzheimer's Caregiver. Her poetry has been published in several journals, including Poet Lore, The Prose Poem Project, Ilanot Review, The Barefoot Review, and Poetica Magazine. Her poem, “Mercy of a Full Womb,” won the 2014 Jewish Literary Journal’s 1st anniversary competition. Her poem, “Questions My Mother Asked, Answers My Father Gave Her,” won the 2013 Reuben Rose Poetry prize. She holds an MA in Creative Writing from Bar Ilan University, and a BA from Oberlin College. Miriam is a 24-year resident of Israel. After the Podcast Find Miriam on Facebook and on Twitter . Read Miriam's AlzAuthors blog post. Purchase The Lost Kitchen: Reflections and Recipes from an Alzheimer's Caregiver Purchase Life on Planet Alz by Jack Cohen, Miriam's father Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission on book sales which will cost you nothing. About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here. Thank you for listening. We are a WCN Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Shop our Store

In this episode of Untangling Alzheimer's & Dementia, hosts Marianne Sciucco and Christy Byrne Yates are joined by guests Cynthia Stone and Caroline Prioleau to discuss their documentary film "Keys Bags Names Words." The film explores the experiences of individuals and families affected by dementia and highlights the importance of community support and education. Cynthia and Caroline share their personal journeys and explain how their own encounters with dementia impacted their work on this powerful film. They discuss the process of creating the film, including obtaining footage and incorporating personal stories. The episode also delves into the impact of the film and the goals behind it, such as changing perceptions of dementia and promoting understanding and support. The conversation is filled with heartfelt stories, valuable insights, and practical resources, making it a must-listen for caregivers and anyone interested in Alzheimer's and dementia. So grab your headphones and tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals and families living with dementia. In this episode, you will: Gain valuable insights into Alzheimer's and dementia, empowering you to better understand the conditions and provide compassionate care.Understand the unique challenges faced by dementia caregivers and strategies to overcome them.Discover practical strategies for navigating the challenges of dementia caregiving, helping you feel more equipped and supported in your role.Explore a thought-provoking film about Alzheimer's and dementia, sparking meaningful conversations and raising awareness about these conditions. Watch the film trailer The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the AlzAuthors website at AlzAuthors.com to learn more about the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience.Subscribe to the Untangling Alzheimer's and Dementia podcast on major podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify, or visit AlzAuthors.com to listen to episodes.Email AlzAuthors at [email protected] if you have any questions or need assistance.Consider hosting a community screening of the film to start conversations and connect people to resources.Explore the hear/say Oral History Program, co-founded by Caroline Prioleau, to hear firsthand stories of lived experiences with Alzheimer's and dementia.Educate yourself and others about brain health and strategies for preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's and dementia. Visit Alz.org. About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here. Thank you for listening. We are a WCN Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Shop our Store

In this episode, you'll hear from a diverse group of guests who share their personal experiences and insights on living with dementia. Peter Berry, Michael Ellenbogen, Gerda Saunders, and Jennifer Bute each bring their unique perspectives, providing a wealth of knowledge and understanding about the challenges and triumphs of navigating life with dementia. From discussing the impact of technology on social connections to the importance of finding supportive living arrangements, this episode covers a wide range of topics that caregivers and family members of individuals living with dementia will find valuable. Tune in to gain new insights and discover how technology, support systems, and personal resilience can enhance the lives of individuals with dementia. In this episode, you will: Hear personal reflections from individuals living with dementia, offering a unique perspective on their journey and valuable insights for caregivers and family membersExplore the powerful ways in which technology can be utilized to manage and support individuals with dementia, enhancing their quality of lifeFind out what Jennifer thinks of A-L-E-X-A Meet the authors on our website Download ebook: Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregiving Stories Download Caregiver Tip Sheet: 13 Helpful Tips for the Long-Distance Caregiver Reading2Connect on AlzAuthors.com About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please visit https://alzauthors.com/donate/ . Thank you for listening. We are a WCN Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Shop our Store

Join hosts Marianne Sciucco and Christy Byrne Yates as they discuss the launch of the Whole Care Network's new streaming radio channel with guest Christopher MacLellan, the passionate founder, who aims to connect and empower caregivers through this groundbreaking platform. The app provides trusted information and support to caregivers. Listen to The Whole Care Network Streaming Radio! Download the app from Apple or Google Play. Discover WCN's October Surge event with AlzAuthors In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the resources provided by the Whole Care Network and AlzAuthors, empowering caregivers with a wealth of knowledge and support from experts in the field.Tune in to the streaming radio channel for caregivers to access a variety of informative and uplifting content anytime, anywhere.Get excited about the upcoming conversation that offers fresh perspectives and inspiring stories from caregivers who have overcome challenges and found resilience in their experiences. About Christopher: Christopher MacLellan, is a respected advocate in the caregiving economy. With his extensive experience and knowledge, Christopher offers valuable insights and practical advice to individuals in the caregiving community. As a guest on the AlzAuthors podcast, he shares his expertise on various caregiving topics, providing a wealth of information and support for listeners. Christopher's dedication to raising awareness and improving the lives of caregivers shines through in his contributions to the podcast. His commitment to collaboration and his involvement with the Whole Care Network further demonstrate his passion for connecting caregivers and providing them with the resources they need. Whether you're a caregiver seeking guidance or someone interested in supporting caregivers, Christopher's expertise and contributions are sure to provide valuable insights and support. After the episode, learn more about The Whole Care Network https://thewholecarenetwork.com/ https://thewholecarenetwork.com/wcn-surge Connect with Christopher: Email About About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please visit https://alzauthors.com/donate/ . Thank you for listening. We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Shop our Store  

Anne Kenny, MD had been practicing medicine for more than 30 years, recognized by her peers as a “Top Doc” in Geriatric Medicine, but that did not make her caregiving journey with her mother any easier. In fact, when the professional became personal, she sought guidance through the available literature and found little to guide her and her family through the difficult decision making required in dementia care. So, she decided to write her own book, inspired by her experience as a physician and as a daughter, creating the book she wished she’d had for her mother’s care. Making Tough Decisions about End-of-Life Care in Dementia was published in 2018 by Johns Hopkins University Press. Dr. Kenny has worked clinically as a geriatrician in nursing homes, assisted living, rehabilitation, and clinical outpatient settings. She’s found joy in her work with individuals and their families managing issues related to the diagnosis of dementia. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Kenny lectures to both healthcare professionals and the public on aging-related issues including navigating dementia, exercise, nutrition, hormone therapy, death and dying, and frailty. In this episode, you will: Gain profound understanding of the lived experiences of dementia caregivers, enhancing your compassion and awareness.Explore the journey towards uncovering purpose and meaning amidst dementia, redefining your outlook on life.Appreciate the necessity for open dialogue about end-of-life decisions, strengthening emotional preparedness and resilience.Learn about the impactful role of arts and music in the realm of dementia care, introducing you to innovative care methodologies.Recognize the imperative of reaching out and receiving support in dementia caregiving, developing effective stress management techniques. Purchase Making Tough Decisions about End-of-Life Care in Dementia Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission from book sales. After the Podcast Read Anne’s AlzAuthors post: Making Tough Decisions About End-of-Life Care in Dementia, by Author Anne Kenny, MD Explore Caring Kind Download 13 Tips for Long-Distance Caregivers About Anne Kenny, MD I’m a geriatric physician and founder of Together in Dementia, where I support families and care partners to modify their approach to dementia so that they can find joy, connection and calm in their care journey without losing their minds, falling into depression, or ruining their health or relationships. We do this using our KNOW/ADAPT/CONNECT (KnAC) method via courses, coaching and consulting. Connect with Anne Kenny, MD Facebook LinkedIn Twitter *** About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please visit https://alzauthors.com/donate/ . Thank you for listening. We are a WCN Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Shop our Store    

Have you heard these common myths about reading to individuals with dementia? Myth 1: People with dementia can't understand or enjoy reading. Myth 2: Reading is a solitary activity and won't benefit socialization. Myth 3: It's too late to start reading to someone with dementia. In this episode, Susan Ostrowski debunks these myths and shares the truth about the impact of the Reading2Connect program on individuals with dementia. In her work, Susan has learned that people with dementia can continue to enjoy reading and often find it brings opportunities for socialization and leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn: How the Reading2Connect® program can improve socialization and connection for individuals with dementia, leading to a better quality of life.The importance of selecting meaningful and clinically appropriate reading materials for individuals with cognitive impairments and how it can enhance their engagement and comprehension.How incorporating visual elements in reading materials can further enhance engagement and comprehension for individuals with dementia.About the success of the Reading2Connect® program in receiving funding and interest from libraries and organizations and how it's positively impacting the community.Insights into empowering individuals with dementia through leadership roles in reading and discussion groups, allowing them to foster a sense of purpose and autonomy. About Susan Ostrowski: Susan Ostrowski is a highly experienced speech pathologist and the creator of the Reading2Connect® program. With a remedial reading and speech background, Susan has devoted her career to helping individuals with cognitive impairments. Recognizing the impact of dementia on reading abilities, Susan embarked on a mission to develop materials that cater specifically to this population's needs. Through extensive field testing and collaboration with healthcare professionals, she has successfully created over 50 booklets that engage and resonate with individuals living with dementia. Susan's program addresses cognitive challenges such as organizational thought, sustained focus, and working memory, offering a unique approach to reading and comprehension. Her work has gained recognition and support, including partnerships with organizations like AGE-u-cate® and collaborations with libraries. Susan's dedication to improving the quality of life for individuals with dementia through reading is making a significant impact in the field, providing caregivers and individuals with valuable resources and opportunities for connection. After the episode, view these videos to see the program in action:  Bk Stand Falls logo.ChaseCity.mp4 Small Group Res-Directed.MOV Rosa Parks 4.mp4 Connect with Susan: Website LinkedIn About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please visit https://alzauthors.com/donate/ . Thank you for listening. We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Shop our Store  

Kate Hanley’s discovery of her parent’s unique love language set her on a path she never anticipated—writing a book. Yet these beautiful “paper napkin sonnets,” and the story that surrounds them, were too precious and inspiring not to share, as they offer hope for anyone in the throes of caring for someone with dementia. The overwhelming peace she had when she witnessed her mother's love for her seven children overpower dementia encouraged her to write her story. It is her hope that others will believe that their compassion and resilience in caring for someone with dementia will not be forgotten. About Kate Hanley Kate is passionate about the work she does with nonprofit organizations and their direct mail outreach through her work with Cathedral Corporation. She is also an adjunct professor with Utica College and Teacher Education Programs. She and her husband live in Old Forge, NY with two dogs and two grown sons who come home as often as possible to enjoy the peace and beauty of the Adirondack Mountains. In this episode, you will be able to: ·     Realize the value of anecdotes related to dementia care, shedding light on love's strength and the hurdles encountered on the journey. ·     Expound on the essence of memory preservation techniques and harnessing the senses in dementia care. ·     Grasp the emotional aspects of caregiving and the importance of forging supportive alliances for mental well-being. ·     Recognize the early warning signs of dementia, distinguishing it from the natural aging process. ·     Acknowledge the efficacy of storytelling and clear-cut communication in enhancing the caregiving experience. After the Podcast Read Kate’s AlzAuthors post: Love is Never Forgotten in Breakfast Memories: A Dementia Love Story Purchase Breakfast Memories: A Dementia Love Story Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission from books sales. Connect with Kate Hanley Website Facebook   *** About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please visit https://alzauthors.com/donate/ . Thank you for listening. We are a WCN Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. Thanks for listening. AlzAuthors.com Shop our Store    

Join hosts Marianne Sciucco and Christy Byrne Yates on the Untangling Alzheimer's & Dementia podcast as they dive into a lively conversation with AlzAuthor Tami Anastasia about the challenges caregivers face in supporting individuals with dementia. Tami's book, Essential Strategies for Dementia Care: Learning to P.A.C.E. Yourself, offers guidance for caregivers on various topics, from communication techniques to managing emotions like anger and grief. The conversation begins with Tami providing insights on motivating individuals with dementia to engage in activities. She emphasizes the importance of understanding that all behavior is a form of communication and highlights the need to truly listen to the person with dementia. Tami also explores the concept of grief and loss in dementia care, emphasizing the need to connect with the person rather than correcting them. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain enlightenment on the unvoiced hurdles that caregivers of dementia patients face.Kickstart your efficient caregiving journey with the assistance of the P.A.C.E. model.Determine how to strike the delicate balance between personal self-care and caretaking for your loved ones with dementia.Learn techniques to reinforce your confidence and self-esteem in your role as a caregiver.Develop a deeper understanding of the emotional intricacies involved in dementia care and how to manage them. More about Tami Tami Anastasia is a reliable confidante to countless family caregivers, guiding them through the complexities of dementia care. Drawing strength from her personal experiences—especially her encounters with her grandmother's dementia diagnosis—she's dedicated to easing the journey for caregivers. Besides running a bustling private practice in the greater Bay Area of California, she inked her experiences and wisdom in the form of her practical book, Dementia Caregiver: Learning to P.A.C.E. Yourself.  Connect with Tami Website LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram TikTok About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please visit https://alzauthors.com/donate/ . Thank you for listening. We are a WCN Featured Podcast. Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network. Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know. AlzAuthors.com Shop our Store