Speaking of Alzheimer's

Today we're joined by country artist Jay Allen who turned his personal pain into powerful purpose after losing his mother to early-onset Alzheimer’s. Jay shares how her diagnosis changed his life, led him to write the viral hit “Blank Stares,” and sparked a nationwide movement for awareness and fundraising. Jay also discusses the healing power of music and how he's using his platform to honor his mother’s legacy and help others facing this devastating disease.For more information on Hope on the Harbor visit alz.org/manh/events/hope-on-the-harbor. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

As he prepares to retire after 27 years as the leader and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter, Jim Wessler joins us to reflect on decades of progress in Alzheimer’s awareness, care, and public policy. Jim shares the stories and people who inspired his work, pivotal moments in the fight against Alzheimer’s including research breakthroughs, and the critical work that still lies ahead in the fight against this growing public health crisis. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode, we explore the power of art as a way to process, connect, and cope while navigating Alzheimer’s. We’re joined by abstract artist Nat Connacher of Stamford, CT who shares how his "Connecting Moments" series became an outlet for processing his mother’s Alzheimer’s journey. We discuss how how creativity can be an effective tool for anyone facing Alzheimer’s — whether you're a caregiver, a loved one, or someone living with the disease.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Teresa Pineau of Connecticut, whose lifelong friend Toni was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at just 47. From high school memories to motherhood and beyond, Theresa shares how their friendship changed as the disease progressed—and what it means to truly show up for a friend facing Alzheimer’s.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Dr. Gillian Coughlan, a research fellow in neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, for a conversation on menopause, cognitive aging, and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Coughlan breaks down the link between menopause and Alzheimer’s risk, plus sex differences in the disease. She also shares insights from her recent study on the timing of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its potential to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode, we continue our conversation about Alzheimer’s treatments—this time, from a patient’s perspective. Tracey Collins from Portland, ME, joins us to share her journey, from the moment of diagnosis to navigating treatment options and receiving Leqembi. She opens up about what the treatment process is like, her hopes for the future, and even how she’s found a unique way to reframe her infusions—seeing them as a “spa day.”Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Dr. Daniel Press, Chief of the Cognitive Neurology Unit at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), who has been administering Leqembi (lecanemab) to patients since its FDA approval. He discusses his experience delivering the treatment — the process from administering the infusions to monitoring for side effects. He also offers insights into managing expectations, the challenges, and how his patients have responded to this new Alzheimer’s therapy. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode we’re joined by Dr. Carl Hill, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for the Alzheimer’s Association, to discuss the disproportionate impact of Alzheimer’s on communities of color and the need for equitable access to diagnosis, care, and support. Dr. Hill discusses the cultural and systemic challenges contributing to these disparities and what work needs to be done to help bridge the gap in Alzheimer’s care. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Dr. Katherine Amodeo, a Movement Disorders Specialist for the Department of Neurology at Westchester Medical Center, to shed light on one of the often overlooked types of dementia, Lewy Body Dementia. We explore the two related conditions—dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD)— and discuss how they differ from Alzheimer’s, as well as the unique challenges faced by those living with the disease and their caregivers. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today's episode, as we close out Season 1, we're sharing some of the most powerful, moving, and inspiring clips from our very first season of Speaking of Alzheimer's. Hear some of the unforgettable moments from people living with the disease, caregivers, researchers, advocates, and so many remarkable individuals who have let us in. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).