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.
30episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Season 13 Revisited (with Amber Ayers)
4d ago00:28:37Tap to summarizeIn this special season finale, we take a step back to reflect on the incredible journey of Season 13. Join us for an intimate behind-the-scenes conversation with Amber Ayers, the editor and producer who has been instrumental in bringing these powerful stories to life. Season 13 has taken us to unexpected places and challenged us to think differently about cognitive health. Now, Amber pulls back the curtain to share her unique perspective on the season's most impactful moments, the stories that stayed with her long after recording, and the technical and creative decisions that shaped each episode. This isn't just a recap—it's a deeper dive into the themes, connections, and revelations that emerged across the season.
Transcribe →The Brain’s Plastic Problem (with Dr. Matt Campen & Dr. Eliane El Hayek)
2w ago00:36:43Tap to summarizeIn this eye-opening episode, we dive into one of the most alarming environmental health discoveries of our time: microplastics are infiltrating our brains—and the implications for cognitive health may be profound. Our conversation with Dr. Matt Campen, a distinguished professor and toxicologist, and Dr. Eliane El Hayek, an assistant professor at the forefront of microplastic research helps us unravel the science behind how these tiny plastic particles enter our bodies, cross the blood-brain barrier, and potentially contribute to neurological decline. From the water we drink to the air we breathe, microplastics are everywhere—and emerging research suggests they may be accumulating in brain tissue at concerning levels. Our guests explain the latest findings, the potential mechanisms of harm, and what this means for dementia risk and brain health across the lifespan.
Transcribe →Dementia Without Borders (with Dr. Santino Severoni)
Jun 1700:41:15Tap to summarizeWe sit down with Dr. Santino Severoni, the World Health Organization's Head of Health and Migration, to explore an often-overlooked intersection of global health crises: dementia care among refugee populations. Dr. Severoni brings his extensive expertise to illuminate the unique challenges faced by refugees and migrants living with dementia—from language barriers and cultural stigma to the trauma of displacement compounding cognitive decline. We discuss how forced migration disrupts traditional family care structures, the difficulties of diagnosis in transient populations, and the critical gaps in healthcare systems that leave vulnerable elderly refugees and migrants without adequate support. This conversation challenges us to think beyond borders about dignity, care, and our collective responsibility to the world's most vulnerable populations.
Transcribe →From Interviewing World Leaders to Leading Caregivers (with Deborah Kan)
Jun 300:37:44Tap to summarizeIn this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Deborah Kan, an award-winning journalist and founder of Being Patient, shares how her caregiving journey transformed her from a seasoned journalist covering global events to a trusted voice in the dementia community. She opens up about the challenges of balancing her career with the demands of caregiving, the moments that challenged her, and the insights that ultimately led her to create resources that thousands of families now depend on. Deborah brings her storytelling expertise and investigative instincts to a conversation that explores the gaps in dementia support, the isolation caregivers face, and why she decided to use her platform and skills to build something bigger than herself. From the newsrooms of Asia to the quiet moments of caregiving at home, this is a story about finding purpose in unexpected places and turning personal struggle into collective strength. As a mom of three and an avid runner, Deborah also discusses how she maintains her own well-being while supporting others, the lessons journalism taught her about advocacy, and what it really takes to create meaningful change in the dementia space.
Transcribe →Senior Moments or Something More (with Dr. Michelle McDonnell)
May 2000:35:07Tap 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.
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