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.

Our brains are magnificently complex - and highly fallible. This hour, neuroscientist and novelist Lisa Genova explains how to keep our brains healthy and what to do when something goes wrong.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Neuroscientist Lisa Genova discusses memory lapses, brain functions, and the crucial role of memory in daily life. Explore memory creation, retention processes, and the portrayal of neurological diseases in novels. Learn about Alzheimer's disease, prevention, genetic testing, and the shared humanity in facing neurological conditions.

Lisa Genova, a neuroscientist and author of "Still Alice," dives into the science of Alzheimer's and how it’s not an inevitable fate. She discusses the impact of lifestyle changes—like exercise and diet—on brain health and delaying cognitive decline. Genova highlights the importance of cognitive reserve, emphasizing education and engagement, and shares insights on non-drug strategies like sleep and social interactions. With exciting updates on prevention and treatment, she inspires proactive approaches to building an Alzheimer's-resistant brain.

Lisa Genova, a neuroscientist and bestselling author, discusses her new novel, More or Less Maddy, featuring a young aspiring stand-up comedian diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She emphasizes the importance of accurate representation in fiction, drawing from extensive research and personal experiences. Genova highlights the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and stigma surrounding mental health, advocating for the term 'neurological disorder' to encourage understanding. The conversation intertwines comedy with the ups and downs of bipolar disorder, exploring identity and societal expectations.