

Speaking of Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's Association New England Region
Presented by the Alzheimer's Association New England Region. Firsthand experiences from those navigating their journey with Alzheimer's disease, care partners, and researchers.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 27, 2025 • 24min
Menopause, Memory Loss, and Alzheimer's
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).

Mar 13, 2025 • 21min
Receiving Alzheimer's Treatment: A Patient's Perspective
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).

Feb 27, 2025 • 25min
Delivering Alzheimer's Treatment: A Doctor's Perspective
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).

Feb 13, 2025 • 26min
Addressing Alzheimer's Disparities in Communities of Color
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).

Feb 6, 2025 • 26min
Beyond Alzheimer's: Understanding Lewy Body Dementia
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).

Jan 23, 2025 • 15min
Best of Season 1
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).

Jan 9, 2025 • 21min
Antonia Bennett on Music, Alzheimer's, and Her Father's Legacy
On today's episode we're joined by daughter of the legendary Tony Bennett, Antonia. She shares her powerful story of love, music, and navigating her father’s journey with Alzheimer’s. She also discusses how their musical bond became a source of strength and connection.
Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Dec 12, 2024 • 20min
When the Holidays Reveal Cognitive Changes
On today’s episode we’re continuing our conversation on navigating the holidays. We’re joined by Jo Cotto, Sr. Programs Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association VT Chapter, and Annie Murphy, Sr. Programs Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association RI Chapter, to discuss subtle signs that can arise during holiday gatherings when you might notice a loved one struggling with memory, focus, or familiar routines.
Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Nov 21, 2024 • 27min
A Season of Care: Holiday Tips for Dementia Caregivers
On today’s episode, as we enter the holiday season, we’re discussing navigating this time of year with a loved one living with dementia. We’re joined by our very own experts, Nicole McGurin, Programs Director for the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter and Esther Pearl, Programs Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association CT Chapter. We explore strategies to make these gatherings meaningful and manageable for everyone involved, and offer tips for helping family members understand and adapt to changing needs.
Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Nov 7, 2024 • 30min
BONUS: Caring Smarter, Not Harder
Today's episode is a bonus episode in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month. We're joined by Tufts Medicine's Dr. Brent Forester and journalist Tom Harrison who share invaluable insights on how families can "care smarter, not harder" to help maintain the best possible quality of life for their loved ones affected by dementia. The two discuss why caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease is challenging, strategies for caregivers, the importance of planning ahead of a crisis, and more.
For more information and to register for Dr. Forester and Tom Harrison's upcoming education program "Navigating the Dementia Care Journey" on Nov. 13 click here.
Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).