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10% Happier with Dan Harris

How To Prevent Dementia | Lisa Genova

Oct 30, 2023
Neuroscientist Lisa Genova discusses the difference between forgetting and memory loss, the relationship between dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and the role of meditation in brain health. She shares practical tips for preventing Alzheimer's through exercise, sleep, and nutrition. The importance of storytelling to explore empathy for mental illness is also highlighted.
01:01:50

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Forgetting names, words, or recent events does not always indicate early onset Alzheimer's; empathy and emotional connections remain intact even when memories fade.
  • Sleep, exercise, and diet are crucial for memory and brain health, including clearing away amyloid beta, reducing the risk of dementia, and following a brain-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and fatty fish.

Deep dives

Understanding Memory and Alzheimer's

Memory loss and forgetfulness are common concerns, but they do not always indicate early onset Alzheimer's. Lisa Genova, a neuroscientist and author, explains that forgetting names, words, or recent events can be normal and unrelated to dementia. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, and memory loss is just one symptom. However, empathy and emotional connections remain intact even when memories fade. Fiction can help build empathy and understanding of Alzheimer's from a patient's perspective.

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