Speaking of Alzheimer's

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).

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).

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).

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).

Today’s episode explores a compelling yet underrecognized connection — the link between Alzheimer’s disease and Down syndrome. We’re joined by Dr. Stephanie Santoro and clinical social worker Clo Cottrell from the Down Syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital. We discuss why individuals with Down syndrome are at an increased risk for Alzheimer’s, how symptoms may present differently, and the challenges for caregivers. We also discuss the critical need for inclusive clinical trials to better understand Alzheimer's treatments for those with Down syndrome.  Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode we’re joined by Officer Steven Duqette with the Manchester Police Department and Lt. Col. Mark Davison with the Connecticut State Police to discuss protecting and serving the older adult population and individuals living with dementia. The two share their experiences with wandering, scams targeting older adults, hoarding, and how dementia training is critical for first responders. We also chat about wandering registries and how they can provide law enforcement agencies with a critical network of information in the event of a wandering incident. For more information on the Alzheimer’s Association Approaching Alzheimer’s: First Responder Training visit alz.org/professionals/first-responders.  Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Jennifer Pollina, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones and former caregiver for her mother, to discuss the financial burden of Alzheimer’s disease and how to plan ahead. Jennifer shares financial planning strategies for families after receiving a diagnosis, tips on how to begin conversations about finances with family members, preparing for the costs of long-term care facilities, long-term care insurance, and more.  Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode we’re continuing our discussion on caregiving and how each caregiver’s journey is unique. We’re joined by Betsey Bianchi from Killington, VT and Virginia O’Leary from Pittsfield, MA. Betsey is a caregiver for her mother, Jenny, and Virginia is a caregiver for her partner, Kirk. The two share their unique experiences, challenges, and tips for other caregivers. They also chat about their involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the sense of community it brings to them. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

On today’s episode we’re discussing caregiving and how each caregiver’s journey is unique. We’re joined by Amanda Caroluzzi from Newtown, CT and John Newby from Harpswell, ME. Amanda is a “sandwich generation” caregiver currently caring for her mother who is living with Alzheimer’s while also raising a one-year-old son. John is a caregiver for his wife, Venus, who is living with younger-onset Alzheimer’s. The two share their unique experiences, challenges, and tips for other caregivers. They also chat about their involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and how it has become a therapeutic experience for them.  Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

Today we’re joined by Sarah Barclay from Newport, Rhode Island and Stuart McLeod from Needham, Massachusetts who both faced the heartbreak of a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and turned their grief into action. Sarah’s family founded the Block Island Walk to End Alzheimer’s in honor of their mother, Sandy, and Stuart began his own fundraiser called The Washburn Challenge in honor of his sister, Sara. The two discuss the how they found purpose through raising funds and awareness, and the importance of helping fund Alzheimer’s research in the new era of treatment.   Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).