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.

In this episode of Living Our Best With Memory Loss, we sit down with Shanna Browning from First Century Bank to discuss the crucial intersection of financial planning and memory care. Shanna brings her wealth of experience to help families facing memory loss understand the importance of financial preparedness and provides actionable advice to navigate this challenging journey.

From safeguarding assets to creating plans that ensure loved ones are cared for, Shanna shares invaluable insights tailored to those affected by Alzheimer’s, dementia, or cognitive decline. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or someone newly diagnosed, this episode offers practical guidance to reduce stress and focus on what matters most. Join us as we learn how thoughtful financial strategies can ease burdens and create peace of mind for the future. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from this essential advice.

In the second part of our interview with Deborah Kan, the founder of Being Patient, we delve deeper into her personal journey navigating her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and how it inspired her to create one of the most trusted platforms for Alzheimer’s and brain health resources. Deborah shares invaluable insights into bridging the gap between patients, caregivers, and the medical community while empowering people to make informed decisions about their care.

This episode focuses on actionable advice for families dealing with memory loss, ways to stay informed about cutting-edge research, and how to find support when it’s needed the most. Deborah’s mission to provide unbiased, science-backed information has made a significant impact on the dementia care landscape, and she continues to inspire hope and connection.

We’re kicking off Season 2 of Living Our Best With Memory Loss with an inspiring two-part conversation featuring Deborah Kan, founder of BeingPatient.com. As a former journalist and executive producer at The Wall Street Journal, Deborah’s personal journey navigating her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis led her to create Being Patient, a trusted platform dedicated to brain health and neurodegenerative disease.

In this first episode, Deborah shares how her mother’s diagnosis shifted her perspective and inspired her to leave her established career to focus on bridging the gap between patients, caregivers, and the expert community. From the challenges of accessing unbiased information to the creation of a global community that fosters understanding and hope, Deborah’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and passion.

Episode Highlights:

• The inspiration behind Being Patient and how it has grown into a global resource for millions.
• Deborah’s insights into the gaps in Alzheimer’s research and care.
• How storytelling and journalism can empower patients and caregivers.
• Ways caregivers and families can connect with the Alzheimer’s community to find support and guidance.

Don’t miss Deborah’s incredible insights as she shares her journey and discusses the importance of education, awareness, and breaking down barriers in dementia care. Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2 of this enlightening conversation!

In Episode 10 of “Living Our Best With Memory Loss,” we are excited to welcome Teepa Snow, a world-renowned dementia care specialist and the founder of the Positive Approach to Care® (PAC). Teepa brings her deep knowledge and innovative methods to the conversation, offering insights that are both practical and transformative for anyone navigating life with dementia.

Teepa discusses her PAC approach, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what individuals with dementia can still do rather than what they have lost. She introduces her GEMS® model, which redefines how we think about dementia by describing brain changes as “states” rather than rigid “stages.” This perspective allows for a more compassionate and adaptable approach to care.

Throughout the episode, Teepa shares practical tips on how to better engage with those living with dementia, including the concept of multimodal learning. She explains how caregivers can use visual, auditory, and tactile cues to connect more effectively with their loved ones. This episode is filled with Teepa’s signature blend of wisdom, humor, and heartfelt understanding, making it a must-listen for caregivers, family members, and anyone interested in learning more about dementia care.

Join us for this enlightening conversation and discover how Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care® can help you create a more positive and supportive environment for those living with cognitive changes.

Episode Highlights:

• Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care® (PAC)
• The GEMS® model: Understanding brain changes as states, not stages
• Multimodal learning techniques for better engagement
• Practical tips for caregivers and loved ones

In Episode 9 of “Living Our Best With Memory Loss,” we welcome back Adria Thompson, a renowned dementia care specialist and Founder of Be Light Care Consulting. In this insightful episode, Adria shares invaluable tips and strategies designed to improve communication and support for individuals with memory loss.

Joined by hosts Debo (David Bolinger), Lori Stryer, Lori Beatty, and our editor Jeffrey Cunningham, Adria offers practical advice on how to create an environment that respects and preserves the dignity of those living with cognitive challenges. Whether it’s better labeling hallways to help guests navigate the studio or subtle ways to handle moments when someone can’t recall a name, Adria’s insights are both compassionate and effective.

Key topics discussed include:

• Navigating Spaces: Adria’s tips for labeling hallways and rooms to make spaces more accessible and comfortable for guests with memory loss.
• Editing with Sensitivity: Guidance for editors on how to present content in a way that maintains the dignity of guests, avoiding any unintentional focus on their challenges.
• Effective Communication: Techniques for gently assisting individuals who struggle to recall names or words, helping them feel supported and understood during conversations.

This episode is a must-watch for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone who wants to create a more supportive and respectful environment for those living with dementia or other cognitive impairments.

In this heartfelt episode of “Living Our Best With Memory Loss,” we sit down with Todd and Polly, a couple whose journey with Alzheimer’s is marked by resilience, love, and a deep commitment to each other. Todd, a skilled woodworker and former home-builder, has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. Despite the challenges, he continues to engage in his passion for woodworking, finding joy and purpose in his craft.

Polly, who spent 34 years teaching at the Tennessee School for the Deaf, shares how her experience in education and early intervention work has shaped her approach to supporting Todd. She reflects on the early signs of Todd’s condition and how seeking help from professionals like Dr. Monica Crane and participating in support groups like SET has been instrumental in improving their communication and strengthening their relationship.

This episode delves into:

• Todd’s Journey with Alzheimer’s: How he continues to pursue his woodworking passion and navigate the challenges of memory loss.
• Polly’s Insights on Caregiving: Drawing from her extensive background in teaching and early intervention, Polly discusses how support groups and counseling have played a crucial role in their journey.
• The Power of Support and Counseling: How joining a support group has helped both Todd and Polly improve their communication and understanding, making their relationship stronger in the face of Alzheimer’s.
• Balancing Life with Alzheimer’s: Todd and Polly share their strategies for maintaining a fulfilling life, from engaging in meaningful activities to seeking professional support.

Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking help, staying connected, and finding joy in everyday activities, even in the face of a challenging diagnosis. Todd and Polly’s experience offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone navigating life with Alzheimer’s or supporting a loved one through it.