In this moving episode, we are joined by Sarah Dickson of the Alzheimer’s Association, Tennessee Chapter, and Donna Barber, a dedicated volunteer whose husband, Larry, is living with Alzheimer’s.

Donna shares her personal journey with immense transparency—from the first signs of memory loss and receiving the diagnosis, to the daily emotional challenges and the profound shift in her role from a wife to a full-time caregiver. She explains how making one phone call to the Alzheimer’s Association became her “blessing,” connecting her to a community and a support system that she and Larry desperately needed.

This episode is a vital listen for anyone touched by Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment. Whether you are a caregiver feeling overwhelmed, a person living with a diagnosis, or someone who wants to help, Donna and Sarah’s message is clear: You do not have to do this alone. There is hope, there is help, and there is a community waiting for you.

➡️ Get Involved or Find Help: If you or someone you know needs support or wants to volunteer, visit the Alzheimer’s Association at: https://www.alz.org/volunteer

In episode 2 of season 3, we continue our discussion with Dr. Brent Forester and Thomas Harrison on navigating the complexities of memory loss and cognitive challenges.

Hosts Lori, Bob (living with MCI due to Vascular Disease), Denis (living with Early Onset Alzheimer’s), and SuAnne (living with MCI due to Multiple Sclerosis) are again joined by special guests Dr. Brent Forester (Geriatric Psychiatrist) and Thomas Harrison (Author & Former Caregiver), authors of “The Complete Family Guide to Dementia: Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Parent and Yourself.” We pick up where we left off, diving deeper into the practical and emotional aspects of considering and choosing a care facility for a loved one.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 1 of the Living Our Best with Memory Loss podcast! In this first of a two-part series, we explore why treating significant memory loss or cognitive challenges with the seriousness of a disease is vital for both individuals and their families.

Hosts Lori, Bob (living with MCI due to Vascular Disease), Denis (living with Early Onset Alzheimer’s), and SuAnne (living with MCI due to Multiple Sclerosis) are joined by special guests Dr. Brent Forester and Thomas Harrison. They discuss their motivations behind co-authoring the insightful book, “The Complete Family Guide to Dementia: Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Parent and Yourself,” and why proactive planning is key to navigating the journey ahead.

We’ve reached the final episode of Season 2 of Living Our Best With Memory Loss! In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Barak Gaster, a nationally recognized expert in dementia care, to discuss cognitive evaluations—what they are, why they matter, and how they can help with early diagnosis and long-term care planning.

Dr. Gaster also shares insights into The Physician’s Playbook for Dementia, a groundbreaking tool designed to help doctors recognize early signs of dementia and guide patients through the diagnostic process. This playbook is changing the way primary care physicians approach memory loss, ensuring better outcomes for those experiencing cognitive decline.

Key topics in this episode:

✅ What happens during a cognitive evaluation?
✅ Early signs of dementia and when to seek medical advice
✅ How The Physician’s Playbook for Dementia is helping improve early diagnosis
✅ How caregivers and patients can advocate for better medical care

In this compelling second part of our conversation with Dr. Catherine A. Madison, M.D., we continue to dive deeper into her expertise and the latest advancements in brain health and dementia care. Dr. Madison, with her extensive experience as the former Medical Director of the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center, shares valuable insights into understanding, diagnosing, and managing memory loss conditions. From practical tips for caregivers to the significance of early detection, this episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone navigating the complexities of cognitive decline.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of the leading experts in the field! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your friends and family—it could make a difference in someone’s life. And don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more episodes featuring experts, caregivers, and inspiring individuals living with memory loss.

In this insightful episode of Living Our Best with Memory Loss, we sit down with Dr. Catherine A. Madison, a renowned neurologist and expert in cognitive health. Dr. Madison shares her wealth of knowledge about memory loss, brain health, and the steps we can take to better understand and navigate these challenges.

Dr. Madison’s expertise extends to diagnosing and treating Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive conditions, offering valuable insights into how the brain works and changes over time.

She also discusses the importance of early detection and offers practical advice for caregivers and individuals living with memory loss. Whether you’re a caregiver, a patient, or someone curious about how to improve brain health, this episode is packed with valuable information and actionable tips

In this episode of Living Our Best With Memory Loss, we sit down with Celia Gruzalski, the Executive Director of the Tennessee Memory Disorders Foundation. Celia shares her insights into how the foundation supports individuals living with dementia and their families, as well as the importance of building community resources for those navigating memory loss.

Celia’s passion for improving the lives of those affected by cognitive decline shines through as she discusses her role in advancing memory care initiatives.

Her experience provides valuable advice for caregivers, families, and anyone interested in brain health and advocacy. Tune in to learn more about the critical work being done at the Tennessee Memory Disorders Foundation, along with practical tips on how to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with memory disorders.

In Episode 6 of Living Our Best With Memory Loss, we welcome Glen Kyle, a Certified Elder Law Attorney with a passion for advocating for older adults and their families. Glen brings decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge to this engaging conversation about the critical importance of legal planning when facing memory loss or dementia.

Join us as Glen discusses essential topics, including:

• Life care planning and how it provides peace of mind for families.
• Understanding Medicaid planning and how it can help protect your loved ones’ assets.
• The significance of estate planning, special needs trusts, and probate administration.
• Practical advice for caregivers and individuals diagnosed with memory loss or dementia.

With his extensive background in elder law and his dedication to empowering families, Glen offers invaluable insights and actionable advice for navigating the complexities of aging and memory loss.

If you or a loved one is on a journey with dementia or memory loss, this episode is a must-watch. Learn how proper legal planning can alleviate stress, protect your family’s future, and ensure dignity for those diagnosed.

In Episode 5 of Living Our Best With Memory Loss, we sit down with Dr. Brenda Nicholson, a distinguished expert in dementia care and advocacy. Dr. Nicholson brings decades of experience as a physician, researcher, and caregiver advocate to the conversation. In this episode, she shares insights into the latest research on Alzheimer’s and dementia, practical strategies for navigating a diagnosis, and the vital importance of planning for long-term care. Her compassionate and evidence-based perspective offers hope and guidance for anyone affected by memory loss.

Whether you’re seeking advice as a caregiver or looking to better understand dementia as a patient, this episode delivers valuable knowledge to help you navigate the journey with confidence.