Podcast
Dementia Untangled
Hosted by Banner Health · EN
This podcast explores unique topics related to dementia through conversations with physicians, experts, and community leaders—focusing on innovative ideas, practical strategies, and proven methods to create a supportive path for caregivers. Reach out to us with questions or comments at DementiaUntangled@bannerhealth.com.
Our renowned programs and services are made possible by the generous support of donors to Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation. To learn more about the ways you can help support families and the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders visit https://cutt.ly/TOBplVw.
26episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Senior Moments or Something More (with Dr. Michelle McDonnell)
2w ago00:35:07Tap to summarizeWe've all experienced those frustrating moments—forgetting where we put our keys, blanking on a name, or walking into a room and wondering why we're there. But when do these everyday memory slips cross the line from normal aging into something more serious? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Michelle McDonnell, a clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in cognitive assessment and dementia diagnosis. She helps us understand the crucial differences between the natural cognitive changes that come with aging and the warning signs of dementia that should never be ignored. With compassion and clarity, Dr. McDonnell walks us through what happens to our brains as we age, explaining why some forgetfulness is completely normal while other patterns demand attention. She shares real-world examples that illustrate the distinction, discusses the role of neuropsychological testing, and offers guidance on when to seek professional evaluation.
Transcribe →Intervening in Alzheimer's Before Symptoms Strike (with Dr. Mike Malek-Ahmadi)
May 600:30:00Tap to summarizeWhat if we could stop Alzheimer's disease before the first symptom ever appears? In this groundbreaking episode, we sit down with Dr. Mike Malek-Ahmadi, a researcher, to explore the cutting-edge frontier of pre-symptomatic Alzheimer's intervention. Dr. Malek-Ahmadi takes us deep into the science of early detection, explaining how researchers are now identifying biomarkers and brain changes decades before memory loss begins. We discuss the revolutionary clinical trials targeting at-risk individuals, the ethical complexities of treating people who feel perfectly healthy, and the potential to fundamentally transform how we approach neurodegenerative disease. From amyloid plaques to tau proteins, from genetic risk factors to lifestyle modifications, this conversation challenges everything we thought we knew about Alzheimer's treatment. Dr. Malek-Ahmadi shares insights from the latest research, the promise of disease-modifying therapies, and what this paradigm shift means for patients, families, and the future of brain health.
Transcribe →Reframing Caregiver Guilt (with Susanne White)
Apr 2200:32:29Tap to summarizeWe asked Susanne White, founder of Caregiver Warrior, to help us explore one of the most challenging emotional aspects of caregiving: guilt. The weight of caregiving can take its toll, often leading to self-doubt, overwhelming feelings during the journey, and lingering questions long after. Susanne helps us understand the crucial distinction between guilt and shame, and why recognizing this difference matters for your emotional well-being. She emphasizes the importance of giving yourself grace and love as you navigate the complexities of caring for someone with dementia — a role that no one truly signs up for. Throughout our conversation, Susanne shares practical strategies for reframing difficult feelings without compounding them, helping caregivers manage expectations and find compassion for themselves. We discuss why self-compassion is essential for caregiver sustainability and explore techniques for managing the unpredictable nature of the caregiving journey. Susanne offers wisdom on honoring your humanity while caring for others, validating the caregiver experience, and finding hope for emotional healing.
Transcribe →Lessons in Courageous Caregiving (with Debbie Gross)
Apr 800:27:52Tap to summarizeWhat happens when you're simultaneously caring for children, aging parents, and managing a career — all while trying to maintain your own well-being? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Debbie Gross — daughter, mother, caregiver, dementia advocate, and small business owner — to explore the realities of what she calls "Panini Caregiving." Moving beyond the traditional "Sandwich Generation" metaphor, Debbie shares her personal journey and hard-won wisdom about the unique pressures of caring for multiple generations at once. We dive deep into the emotional, physical, and financial challenges that arise when your responsibilities span from school pickups to medical appointments, from business decisions to bedtime routines, and from career ambitions to caregiving duties.
Transcribe →When the Helper Needs Help (with Dr. Wolfgang Spangenberger)
Mar 2500:34:10Tap to summarizeThis insightful conversation with Dr. Wolfgang Spangenberger, chief of surgery, mediator and author, explores the often-overlooked reality of caregiver burnout and the critical importance of self-care in the caregiving journey. Caregiving is one of life's most demanding roles — both mentally and physically exhausting, yet deeply rooted in compassion and the willingness to care for those we love. For many, this role arrives unexpectedly, particularly when navigating the complex and progressive nature of a loved one's dementia. The challenges can feel overwhelming as caregivers balance their own needs with the evolving demands of their care recipient. Dr. Spangenberger shares his expertise on recognizing the signs of caregiver burnout before it becomes overwhelming, managing expectations in the unpredictable journey of dementia care, and giving yourself grace when things don't go as planned. We discuss the power of self-compassion as a tool for sustainable caregiving and explore practical strategies for caring for yourself while caring for others.
Transcribe →Setting the Record Straight on Confabulation (with Helle Brand)
Mar 1100:30:18Tap to summarizeHelle Brand, a physician assistant specializing in dementia care, helps us explore the often-misunderstood phenomenon of confabulation in dementia patients. We discuss what confabulation actually is and why it's fundamentally different from intentional lying. We explore the neurological basis behind why dementia patients create false memories to fill gaps in their recollection, examining common triggers and how the brain attempts to make sense of fragmented memories through fabricated narratives that feel completely real to the person experiencing them. We learn the crucial differences between confabulation and delusional thinking, and why accurate identification matters for providing appropriate care. One of the most powerful aspects of our conversation addresses the caregiver's dilemma — the emotional strain of hearing incorrect stories and why the overwhelming urge to correct these narratives can actually be counterproductive.
Transcribe →Season 12 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
Dec 300:20:11Tap to summarizeIn this special Season 12 Revisited episode, we sit down with our editor and producer, Amber Ayers, to reflect on the powerful conversations and insights shared throughout the season. Together, we explore the themes, stories, and expertise our guests brought to the chat—and how these experiences have shaped our own perspectives both professionally and personally.From innovative updates for prevention and care to deeply human stories of resilience, we untangle what resonated most and how we continue to carry these lessons forward in our work and lives. Join us for a behind-the-scenes conversation full of heartfelt moments, laughter, and renewed appreciation for the journey through dementia education and support.
Transcribe →Exploring the Dementia Data Hub (with Dr. Melinda Power & Dr. David Rein)
Nov 1900:29:28Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we dive deep into how comprehensive datacollection is revolutionizing our approach to dementia as a critical public health issue. Our guests, Dr. Melinda Power and Dr. David Rein, help us explore the groundbreaking Dementia Data Hub and its transformative impact on public health understanding. They walk us through this innovative free website that democratizes access to vital dementia information through interactive maps that visualize dementia prevalence across different regions, dynamic dashboardsdisplaying real-time statistics and trends, and research reports offering high-level findings and actionable insights.Discover how knowledge of diagnosed dementia cases inspecific areas is creating unprecedented opportunities for strategic resource allocation, targeted direct funding, and identifying crucial research opportunities.
Transcribe →Unique Aspects of Veterans and Dementia (with Dr. Amruta Vadnerkar & Mary De Guzman)
Nov 500:34:33Tap to summarizeWe explore the complex intersection of military service and dementia care with Dr. Amruta Vadnerkar, geriatrician and medical director, and Mary De Guzman, program coordinator for the COACH Program at the Phoenix Veterans Affairs Healthcare Center. Our expert guests untangle the unique exposure risks that veterans face, from combat-related traumatic brain injuries to environmental hazards encountered during service. We delve into military-specific risk factors that may accelerate disease progression and examine how these factors create distinct challenges in dementia care for our veteran population.We untangle critical support systems for caregiver wellness, recognizing the unique stressors faced by families caring for veterans with dementia. Our guests provide practical guidance on long-term care planning, including navigating VA benefits, accessing specialized programs, and effectively managing care transitions.
Transcribe →Swinging for the Fences - The Future of Alzheimer's Prevention (with Dr. Robert Alexander)
Oct 2200:31:42Tap to summarizeAn enlightening conversation with Dr. Robert Alexander, Chief Scientific Officer of the Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative at Banner Alzheimer's Institute, explores the cutting-edge world of Alzheimer's research and prevention. He takes us deep into the science behind one of medicine's most challenging frontiers. We dive into groundbreaking research studying autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Alexander explains how scientists are unlocking the mysteries of amyloid processing in the brain by studying families genetically destined to develop the disease. Discover how this unique research approach is providing unprecedented insights into the earliest stages of Alzheimer's development and allows them to explore the promising therapeutic developments emerging from collaborative research efforts worldwide, including innovative drugs that target the disease at its source.
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