Living Our Best With Memory Loss

In Season 4, Episode 10 of "Living Our Best with Memory Loss," we are joined by the insightful Dr. Carolyn Larkin Taylor for a profound conversation about the intersection of medicine, humanity, and the journey of cognitive decline.Dr. Taylor shares intimate stories from her book, Whispers of the Mind, which was born from years of her own personal journal entries. These entries capture the raw, real-life experiences of working with patients and their families, emphasizing a powerful message: despite the challenges of a diagnosis, we are all connected by our shared humanity. We dive into the importance of seeing the person behind the patient and how compassion transforms the caregiving experience.https://www.carolynlarkintaylorauthor.com/

How do you find joy and purpose after a diagnosis?In Part 2 of our deep dive with world-renowned dementia expert Teepa Snow, our hosts Bob, Denis, and SuAnne continue their conversation about the realities of living with memory loss. While Part 1 focused on the mechanics of the brain, Part 2 explores the heart: how to navigate relationships, how to advocate for yourself, and how to continue "Living Our Best" despite the challenges of cognitive decline.Teepa Snow joins us to listen, learn, and offer her unique perspective on the "Positive Approach to Care," specifically focusing on the lived experiences of our hosts who are walking this path every day.In this episode, we discuss:The importance of being heard and understood by care partners.Navigating the "new normal" in social situations and at home.Why a diagnosis doesn't mean the end of your story.Practical tips for maintaining independence and dignity.

STAR Program Website: www.rideatstar.orgDiscover how therapeutic approaches and intentional support can transform the journey of people living with memory loss. In this episode of Living Our Best with Memory Loss, we sit down with Emily Justus and Angela Bartlett from the Shangri-la Therapeutic Academy of Riding (STAR) to discuss the life-changing impact of their programs and the Reflections course.Join hosts Bob, Denis, and Lori as we explore how the STAR Program uses therapeutic approaches to help manage the journey of cognitive decline. By providing a space to find community in shared experiences and offering practical tools for navigating daily life, this episode is packed with hope and actionable advice for both those living with a diagnosis and their care partners.

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4 of "Living Our Best with Memory Loss."In the first of this special two-part series, we are joined by the renowned Dr. Monica Crane, a specialist in aging and dementia. This episode offers a unique bridge between clinical expertise and the lived reality of those navigating a memory loss diagnosis.Dr. Crane joins our hosts—Bob, Denis, and SuAnne (who are all living with cognitive decline)—to discuss the evolving landscape of brain health. We dive deep into the importance of early diagnosis, the shift from "dementia" to "cognitive health," and practical lifestyle changes that can help preserve memory.In this episode, we discuss:The clinical definition of memory loss vs. normal aging.Why the words we use (like "dementia" vs. "brain health") matter.How to find the right medical team after a diagnosis.The impact of diet and lifestyle (and the truth about those "pan of brownies!").Empowering patients to be their own best advocates.About Our Guest:Dr. Monica Crane is a leading expert in geriatric medicine and memory care, dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's and related dementias.

What if the root cause of your brain fog, fatigue, or memory issues isn't what you think? In Part 2 of our conversation with Chiropractic Functional Neurologist Dr. Ryan Worley, we dive deeper into the hidden causes of cognitive decline—including how a concussion from decades ago could still be affecting your brain's "highway" today.In this episode, Dr. Ryan explains why standard MRI and CT scans often come back "normal" even when you don't feel right. We also discuss the crucial difference between severe cognitive decline and CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy), and why your brain might be burning extra energy just trying to perform basic tasks.Plus, get ready to move! Dr. Ryan shares actionable tips for brain regeneration, including the benefits of saunas for boosting BDNF (the brain's "Miracle Grow"), and demonstrates specific motor exercises like "Cross Crawl Taps" and "Figure Eights" to help reconnect your neural pathways.

Welcome to the Season 3 Finale of Living Our Best with Memory Loss! In this special episode, our hosts Bob, Denis, and SuAnne—who are all living with a memory loss diagnosis—are joined by renowned Alzheimer's researcher, Dr. Gregory Jicha.Dr. Jicha offers a powerful and hopeful look at the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer's prevention and treatment, including the new FDA-approved drugs Leqembi and Kisunla, which are changing the biology of the disease for the first time. He also provides an exciting update on the potential of GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide (often used for diabetes and weight loss) and the clinical trials that could make it a new tool in the fight against memory loss.This episode is packed with encouraging insights, but remember: this is not a substitute for medical advice. We are not doctors, and any treatment options discussed should be explored in consultation with your physician.In this episode, we discuss:The evolution of Alzheimer's treatment, from symptom management to disease-modifying therapies.A closer look at the new FDA-approved drugs Leqembi and Kisunla.The groundbreaking research into Semaglutide and its potential benefits for brain health.Why a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to brain health is key.The importance of getting a specific diagnosis for the cause of your memory loss.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 8 of "Living Our Best with Memory Loss"! In this powerful episode, our hosts Bob, Lori, Denis, and SuAnne are joined by special guest Sallie Gentry, a licensed clinical social worker based in Knoxville, Tennessee.Sallie shares her deep passion for supporting caregivers and individuals navigating cognitive disorders, drawing from her personal experiences. This conversation dives into crucial topics, including:The vital importance of purpose for individuals living with cognitive decline and how to maintain engagement.The caregiver's role: How to balance support and empowerment, avoiding the common "doing too much" trap, and strategies like chore lists to foster independence.Cultivating patience, grace, and dignity in care partnerships, and how to avoid "parent-child" dynamics.Acknowledging and adapting to day-to-day fluctuations in abilities for those with memory loss.This episode offers invaluable insights for both individuals with a diagnosis and their caregivers, emphasizing that true support nurtures emotional well-being, preserves dignity, and fosters a sense of purpose.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 6 of "Living Our Best with Memory Loss"! In the first part of a powerful two-episode special, hosts Lori, Bob, and Denis are joined by the inspiring Mike Zuendel.Mike shares his deeply personal and proactive journey with memory loss. He opens up about his family's history with Alzheimer's and his own genetic predisposition, carrying both APOE4 genes. Discover his "moment of truth" that prompted him to seek an early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease.This episode highlights why early detection and proactive healthcare are so crucial. Mike discusses how timely treatment, including 36 monthly infusions, successfully removed pathological beta-amyloid plaque from his brain. He's a living testament that a diagnosis doesn't mean the end of a vibrant, active life. Mike continues to run businesses, engage in public speaking, enjoy skiing, and traveling the world.Join us to hear Mike's powerful message of hope and action, proving that it's possible to live your best life, even with a memory loss diagnosis.If you found this episode helpful or inspiring, please give it a like and subscribe to our channel for more content on living our best with memory loss!

What if redesigning the world around you could lead to a more purposeful and fulfilling life with memory loss? In this powerful episode, hosts Bob, Lori, Denis, and SuAnne sit down with Katie Norris, an expert in applying the Montessori method to memory care, to explore this idea.Katie explains how the Montessori philosophy—originally developed for children—provides a framework for respecting the individual, fostering independence, and creating a "prepared environment" that supports the brain. She shares practical, compassionate strategies for moving beyond a one-size-fits-all model of care. From modifying a recipe so a loved one can still enjoy cooking to understanding that a question like "When can I go home?" is a cue to an unmet need, this conversation is filled with actionable insights.

Find the book here: https://a.co/d/24OFEvNWelcome back to the Living Our Best With Memory Loss podcast! This is Season 3, Episode 2. We are continuing our discussion with Dr. Brent Forester and Thomas Harrison on navigating the complexities of memory loss and cognitive challenges. In this continuation of our conversation, 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.This video is essential for individuals experiencing memory changes, family members, caregivers, and even healthcare professionals. If you're looking to understand the next steps after acknowledging cognitive decline, or if you're seeking guidance on facility selection, transitioning a loved one, or providing ongoing support, this episode offers profound insights and practical advice.

Episode 10 - Cognitive Evaluations & The Physician’s Playbook with Dr. Barak Gaster | Season 2 Finale In the final episode of Season 2 of Living Our Best With Memory Loss, we welcome Dr. Barak Gaster, a nationally recognized expert in dementia care. Dr. Gaster discusses the importance of cognitive evaluations, how they help with early diagnosis, and what patients and caregivers should know when navigating memory loss. We also explore The Physician’s Playbook for Dementia, a critical tool designed to help doctors recognize early dementia symptoms, diagnose more effectively, and guide patients through care planning. This conversation is packed with essential insights for anyone concerned about brain health, caregiving, or early intervention. In this episode, we cover: ✔️ What happens during a cognitive evaluation ✔️ Signs that it’s time to seek medical advice ✔️ How The Physician’s Playbook for Dementia is changing dementia diagnosis ✔️ How caregivers and patients can advocate for better medical care 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with those who may benefit! 📌 Visit our website for resources: www.livingourbest.org 📌 Subscribe for more: @LivingOurBestWithMemoryLoss #Dementia #Alzheimers #MemoryLoss #CognitiveHealth #DementiaCare #BrainHealth #DementiaSupport #CaregiverSupport #DementiaDiagnosis #AlzheimersAwareness #Neurology #LivingWithDementia #DrBarakGaster #DementiaEducation #PhysiciansPlaybook #LivingOurBestWithMemoryLoss

Episode 8: Insights on Dementia Care with Dr. Catherine A. Madison, M.D. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Catherine A. Madison, a neurologist and director of the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center. Dr. Madison brings decades of experience in dementia care, neurology, and patient advocacy. She shares invaluable insights into the challenges of memory loss, the latest approaches to care, and the importance of understanding individual needs. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare professional, or someone affected by memory loss, this episode provides practical advice and heartfelt stories. Dr. Madison’s expertise offers hope and clarity to those navigating Alzheimer’s, dementia, and related conditions. 👉 Tune in to learn more and explore helpful resources at www.livingourbest.org. 🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit. Together, we can create a supportive community for individuals living with memory loss and their loved ones. #DementiaCare #AlzheimersSupport #LivingOurBestPodcast #MemoryLossAwareness

In this insightful episode of Living Our Best With Memory Loss, we are joined by Glen Kyle, a Certified Elder Law Attorney with deep expertise in life care planning, Medicaid advocacy, estate planning, and elder care law. Glen’s dedication to helping families navigate the complexities of aging and memory loss shines through as he shares invaluable advice for caregivers and those diagnosed with dementia or memory loss. Topics covered include: • The importance of life care planning for securing your loved one’s future. • Strategies for Medicaid planning to protect assets and provide financial stability. • The role of estate planning and special needs trusts in elder care. • Practical tips for families dealing with memory loss or dementia diagnoses. Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or someone personally navigating memory loss, this episode is filled with actionable insights and hope. Glen Kyle’s approachable style and wealth of knowledge make this a must-listen for anyone seeking to better understand the legal side of memory loss care. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and follow us to help spread these important resources to those who need them most. Visit our website for more episodes and helpful tools: www.livingourbest.org #LivingOurBestWithMemoryLoss #ElderLaw #DementiaCare #MemoryLossSupport #LegalPlanning #CaregiverResources