Speaking of Alzheimer's

On today’s episode, we explore a common but often overlooked challenge for people living with Alzheimer’s: depression. While memory loss and confusion are widely recognized, the emotional impact often goes undiscussed. We’re joined by Dr. Julia Salinas, Geriatric Psychiatrist and Medical Director at Tufts Medicine’s Memory Care Program, to discuss how overlapping symptoms can make a diagnosis difficult, how to identify depression in loved ones living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and how depression is treated to improve quality of life.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Alison Dvorak, a registered dietician and certified nutritionist, to explore how everyday nutrition choices can support brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline. She discusses the elements of brain-healthy diets, choosing smarter snacks, and tips for making better choices when eating on the go or dining out.For more information on brain-healthy nutrition, join us for the Alzheimer’s Association special virtual education series in honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. To register, visit alz.org/manh/events/ABAM.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode we explore younger-onset Alzheimer’s and how a diagnosis at this stage impacts the whole family –especially children and teens who may struggle to understand and cope. We’re joined by Diana Cose, founder of Lorenzo’s House, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families affected by younger-onset Alzheimer’s, and Patti LaFleur, a daughter who navigated her mother’s diagnosis. Together, they share their powerful stories, the idea of dementia justice, and insights on the unique challenges and support needs of younger families facing dementia.For more information on our virtual program ‘Supporting Families of Younger Onset: A Panel Discussion and Virtual Screening' featuring Lorenzo’s House click here. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

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).