Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers

In this opening episode of Season 2, GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S & CAREGIVERS join Host Jeff Edwards as he dives into crucial insights on dementia and Alzheimer’s, inspired by thoughtful suggestions from my friend BJ Odom who has been a guiding light through his own podcast, Gift Of Life: The Organ Transplant Podcast. His suggestion to interview my wife, as he did with his own, has given him much to consider. We begin by examining the “14 Risk Factors That Can Increase Your Odds of Developing Dementia” and highlight the encouraging news about the Alzheimer’sdrug Leqembi, which shows benefits that improve over time. Get information on the upcoming Alzheimer’s Walk , all over the country. We’re also honored to share an inspiring interview with Bunny, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2018. Despite her diagnosis, Bunny maintains a positive attitude and stays actively engaged in life. Her story is a testament to resilience and hope, and we hope you find her journey as inspiring and uplifting as we did.  Join us as we explore these important topics and celebrate the strength and spirit of those facing Alzheimer’s. GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S & CAREGIVERS. GUTPUNCHED.COM and available on The PODCAST PLAYGROUND.

Navigating the insidious illness of Alzheimer’s is something nobody asks for. The disease sneaks up on you and your loved one, and it feels like you’ve been sucker-punched in the gut when you get the diagnosis from a doctor. So many things race through your mind: why us? What do we do? We worked so hard to get to this point in life. We just moved here after we both worked for 30 years, sold our house up North, and retired to Florida to enjoy our “golden years”. It’s not fair! Who’s going to take care of her/him? I don’t know a thing about this illness. She’s always done the cooking; I don’t even know how to boil water. He's always taken care of me and everything else like Finances. I don’t even drive! And it goes on and on. Facing this disease will bring you to your knees. Once you get over the initial shock (GUT PUNCHED), the questions and fears take hold. Where do we turn for help? Who do I call? What do I do? How do you take care of someone with Alzheimer's? Are there support groups? And questions like these just keep coming. I am a caregiver. I wasn’t before. Well, not this kind of caregiver. My wife was officially diagnosed in January of 2018. I had a sneaking suspicion that she might have something like this about 2 years earlier. So, when I brought it to my Neurologist, he sent us to a very nice Psychologist who specializes in testing patients to determine more accurately what is going on. It was a question-and-answer session, followed by a very detailed testing procedure that usually takes 3 or more hours. The patient has to complete the test comprising of questions, simple actions, and memory tests, then give them a couple of numbers or words then move on, going back to the numbers or words a short time later.  So moving forward, I asked all the same questions as mentioned earlier. What are my options? So I “sucked it up”-Manned up so to speak. It's part of the deal for better or worse, right? So began my quest for information on support groups, doctors, anything I could get my hands on. It's been 6 years, and I am still looking for everything and anything that will help me crawl through this unchartered path to enlightenment. I was very fortunate to live in a city that has numerous resources to tap into. Most importantly, it's a place named after someone who suffered from Alzheimer’s. His wife provided the money to start the Alvin Dubin Center: The Dubin Center for short. Their mission is to achieve caregiver health, strength, and resilience by providing education, information, hope, and compassion. And boy do they. I leaned on them for everything I could find. Took all kinds of classes to learn what I needed to do to be the caregiver I have to be. Their caregiver class took about 6 weeks. The material we learned from, and the instructors, were top-notch. I still go back to the notes I took, and the books we used: both as refreshers and inspiration. Hopefully, no matter where you are listening to this, there will be a place like the Dubin Center. If not, don’t despair. The info is out there. That’s what this podcast is about. We’d like to share our resources, our experiences, our heartbreak, and our little victories. From time to time, we’d like to bring in Physicians, Nurses, Experts, and people like you and me, who are going through this disease with our loved ones who are willing to share their journey. The first thing that really stuck with me, and hopefully it will be with you. If you are a caregiver, you must first take care of yourself. Because this is not a sprint, but a marathon. And if you are run down, get sick, or worse.... Who’s going to take care of your spouse, mother, father, or child? Think about that for a few seconds. It’s you, the Caregiver. It’s me the Caregiver. That’s why we’re here. Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers! Thanks for joining us...now let's get going.

Welcome back, caregivers, fighters, and listeners walking this tough road with love and grit. In Episode 76, host Jeff Edwards dives headfirst into the gut-wrenching yet vital world of Alzheimer’s and caregiving, where the emotional toll is real, but so is the power of community, knowledge, and self-care. 💥 This week’s episode hits hard and informs even harder with three must-know articles making waves in the Alzheimer’s world: The FDA has cleared the first-ever blood test for Alzheimer’s screening in primary care—what this means for earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. Why are women at a higher risk of Alzheimer’s? We unpack the science and the implications for future research. And a wake-up call: Even light drinking may increase dementia risk. We dig into the new study that challenges old assumptions. But that’s not all... 🔥 Jeff brings it back to the core tenets of GutPunched, the rules every caregiver needs to survive this relentless journey: Take care of YOU first. You cannot do this alone. Make your lists. Use your lists. Get things done. Create help signals that bring dignity and trust into caregiving. 💜 Whether you love caregiving or feel like it’s swallowing you whole, this podcast reminds you: it’s your life, until it’s not. So give it your all, and remember, you are not alone. 🌟 If this episode hits home, share it. Leave a 5-star review. Spread the word to friends, family, or anyone watching someone they love slowly fade into dementia. There IS help. There IS hope. That’s why we’re here. 👉 Let’s do this. Episode 76 starts now.  

In this eye-opening episode, host Jeff Edwards dives into the realities of caregiving with honesty, heart, and a touch of humor. Kicking off with reflections from a recent men’s caregiver support meeting, Jeff explores tough, but essential, topics like legal planning, death, grief, and guilt. It’s not “sexy,” but it’s crucial education for anyone on the caregiving journey. Jeff welcomes Dr. William Justiz of Aqualane Critical Research, a deeply knowledgeable expert in Alzheimer’s care and research. Even Jeff, a seasoned caregiver and podcast host, found himself scribbling down notes. Listeners are guaranteed to walk away with new insights into Alzheimer’s that they probably didn’t know before. 🎺 Special Announcement: GutPunched is proud to welcome its first official sponsor, Heart, Body & Mind Home Care, an award-winning provider specializing in Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s care. Check them out at HBMHomeCare.com or via the link on GutPunched.com. As always, Jeff walks through the GutPunched Tenets of Caregiving—practical, empowering rules for every caregiver: Take care of yourself first. You can’t do it alone, build your support network. Make (and use) your help lists. Create a help signal your loved one understands. 💬 "Caregiving: Love it or hate it, it will be your life until it’s not. Give it your all." If you find value in the show, please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with anyone navigating Alzheimer’s or dementia care. Information and support are out there, and GutPunched is here to help you find both. #AlzheimersSupport #CaregiverLife #DementiaCare #GutPunchedPodcast #CaregivingJourney #AlzheimersAwareness #MenWhoCaregive #HomeCare #ElderCare #PodcastRecommendations New Episode available on The Podcast Playground, PodBean, and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check  GUTPUNCHED.COM for the latest information. Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers - Podcast - Apple Podcasts  

Navigating the insidious illness of Alzheimer’s is something nobody asks for. The disease sneaks up on you and your loved one, and it feels like you’ve been sucker-punched in the gut when you get the diagnosis from a doctor. So many things race through your mind: why us? What do we do? We worked so hard to get to this point in life. We just moved here after we both worked for 30 years, sold our house up North, and retired to Florida to enjoy our “golden years”. It’s not fair! Who’s going to take care of her/him? I don’t know a thing about this illness. She’s always done the cooking; I don’t even know how to boil water. He's always taken care of me and everything else like Finances. I don’t even drive! And it goes on and on. Facing this disease will bring you to your knees. Once you get over the initial shock (GUT PUNCHED), the questions and fears take hold. Where do we turn for help? Who do I call? What do I do? How do you take care of someone with Alzheimer's? Are there support groups? And questions like these just keep coming. I am a caregiver. I wasn’t before. Well, not this kind of caregiver. My wife was officially diagnosed in January of 2018. I had a sneaking suspicion that she might have something like this about 2 years earlier. So, when I brought it to my Neurologist, he sent us to a very nice Psychologist who specializes in testing patients to determine more accurately what is going on. It was a question-and-answer session, followed by a very detailed testing procedure that usually takes 3 or more hours. The patient has to complete the test comprising of questions, simple actions, and memory tests, then give them a couple of numbers or words then move on, going back to the numbers or words a short time later.  So moving forward, I asked all the same questions as mentioned earlier. What are my options? So I “sucked it up”-Manned up so to speak. It's part of the deal for better or worse, right? So began my quest for information on support groups, doctors, anything I could get my hands on. It's been 6 years, and I am still looking for everything and anything that will help me crawl through this unchartered path to enlightenment. I was very fortunate to live in a city that has numerous resources to tap into. Most importantly, it's a place named after someone who suffered from Alzheimer’s. His wife provided the money to start the Alvin Dubin Center: The Dubin Center for short. Their mission is to achieve caregiver health, strength, and resilience by providing education, information, hope, and compassion. And boy do they. I leaned on them for everything I could find. Took all kinds of classes to learn what I needed to do to be the caregiver I have to be. Their caregiver class took about 6 weeks. The material we learned from, and the instructors, were top-notch. I still go back to the notes I took, and the books we used: both as refreshers and inspiration. Hopefully, no matter where you are listening to this, there will be a place like the Dubin Center. If not, don’t despair. The info is out there. That’s what this podcast is about. We’d like to share our resources, our experiences, our heartbreak, and our little victories. From time to time, we’d like to bring in Physicians, Nurses, Experts, and people like you and me, who are going through this disease with our loved ones who are willing to share their journey. The first thing that really stuck with me, and hopefully it will be with you. If you are a caregiver, you must first take care of yourself. Because this is not a sprint, but a marathon. And if you are run down, get sick, or worse.... Who’s going to take care of your spouse, mother, father, or child? Think about that for a few seconds. It’s you, the Caregiver. It’s me the Caregiver. That’s why we’re here. Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers! Thanks for joining us...now let's get going.

In this heartfelt and candid episode of Gut Punched, host Jeff Edwards explores what he lovingly calls a “not a sexy topic”, the often unglamorous but vital conversations around Alzheimer’s disease and caregiving. With his signature blend of humor, honesty, and empathy, Jeff reminds listeners that while this subject might not be flashy, it's one that matters deeply—and sooner or later, touches all of us. Returning to the podcast is Christine LeConte, Director of The Dubin Center, previously featured in Episode 25. One year later, Christine shares updates on how the center is progressing with its 2025 goals and what lies ahead for 2026. Spoiler alert: The Dubin Center is thriving, offering more support, resources, and community for those impacted by dementia. The episode also dives into an article highlighting lifestyle and environmental factors that can increase your risk of developing dementia, continuing the show’s mission of educating and empowering caregivers and families with actionable insight. Jeff reiterates the core tenets of caregiving that define the GutPunched ethos: Care for yourself first; you can’t pour from an empty cup. Don’t go it alone, seek help, community, and support. Make & use support lists, know who’s offered help and what you need done. Create a help signal, a shared cue to ensure your loved one feels safe with outside caregivers. As always, Jeff brings real talk for real people navigating the emotional rollercoaster of Alzheimer’s and caregiving, offering not just resources, but hope, humor, and heart.   🔔 Listen, Subscribe & Share If this episode resonates with you or someone you know, subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Share this podcast with caregivers, families, and friends, because while caregiving may not be “sexy,” it’s life-changing, and no one should do it alone. Thank you for listening to Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 73 Not A Sexy Topic.  

In this deeply personal episode, Jeff Edwards continues his journey with his wife’s rare and severe reaction to Alzheimer’s medication. After a terrifying hospital stay involving brain swelling and bleeds, Jeff shares powerful lessons learned about home health care, insurance, and pre-crisis planning. From creating a list of home health providers to ensuring your insurance covers the right services, Jeff’s lessons are invaluable for anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. Plus, get insights into the critical connection between gut health and Alzheimer’s risk, with tips on brain-boosting diets. Key Takeaways: Why reading the fine print on insurance documents can make all the difference. How to prepare before a health crisis strikes. The importance of self-care as a caregiver. If you're supporting someone with Alzheimer's, this episode is a must-listen. 👉 Tune in NOW on Podcast Playground, PodBean, Apple, Spotify, Pandora, GUTPUNCHED.COM & more! GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers – Episode 72Part 3: My Wife is in the 1%

In this powerful and personal episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards continues the deeply emotional journey of navigating life after his wife experienced a rare reaction to an amyloid-clearing Alzheimer’s medication, putting her in the 1% of patients who suffer significant side effects. Jeff opens up about the hard lessons learned during hospital visits, interacting with doctors, and managing crisis moments in caregiving. From the critical need to carry medication lists, to having a go-bag ready, Jeff shares practical, battle-tested advice that every caregiver should hear, wisdom he wishes he’d known sooner. Also in this episode: A discussion on bad habits that can hurt your brain Recognition of World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and the global efforts on September 21st to raise awareness and fight the stigma of Alzheimer’s A reminder of the 5 core tenets of caregiving that GutPunched lives by—offering guidance, hope, and solidarity to listeners facing similar challenges Jeff’s message is clear: You’re not alone. Planning, preparation, and asking for help aren’t signs of weakness; they’re lifelines. And by sharing his story, he’s helping others become more informed, more prepared, and more supported. Stay tuned for Part 3, where Jeff discusses his education with in-home physical therapy and navigating the maze of insurance companies. If this episode helps or resonates with you, subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with others walking the path of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving. There is help, and there is hope.

In this heartfelt and unflinchingly honest episode, host Jeff Edwards shares the gut-wrenching story of what happened when his wife became one of the rare 1% of Alzheimer’s patients who suffer serious side effects from an amyloid-clearing drug. And no—being in the 1% isn’t always the jackpot you’d hope for (though Jeff jokes maybe it’s time to buy a Powerball ticket). From oatmeal explosions in the kitchen to an ER visit that could’ve taken a fatal turn, Jeff walks us through the day everything changed. It’s a crash course in the scary, unpredictable, and often misunderstood territory of anti-amyloid therapies. With warmth, raw vulnerability, and a touch of humor, he offers lessons every caregiver should hear—like why carrying a certain card could save your loved one’s life, and how "thinking on the fly" becomes part of the caregiver job description. Whether you're knee-deep in caregiving or just beginning the journey, this episode serves up wisdom, hope, and a reminder that you're not alone. And above all, Jeff reminds us: the learning never stops, especially when your partner’s brain decides to throw a plot twist. Welcome to September—World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Let’s talk, learn, and lift each other up. Thank you for listening to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers Episode 70"My Wife is in the 1% — And It Almost Killed Her. It’s  Not What You Think"

As hurricane season hits, host Jeff Edwards brings in a special guest to offer essential safety tips for caregivers—and anyone preparing for the unpredictable storms ahead. In this episode, Jeff sits down with retired Weather Service Meteorologist, David Gilhousen, to discuss what caregivers should know in the event of a hurricane. With practical advice and years of meteorological expertise, David shares what to expect, how to prepare, and how caregivers can protect their loved ones during storm season. Additionally, Jeff revisits key caregiver strategies, including the importance of self-care, building a support network, and creating helpful lists to stay organized. Tune in for some real-world tips on how to manage caregiving during an emergency, and get a refresher on the "rules" Jeff follows at GutPunched to stay grounded in tough times. This episode is a perfect balance of preparedness, care, and friendship—as David has been Jeff’s go-to source for accurate weather intel for years, and now he’s here to share it with all of us.  Upcoming in our next episode:  We’ll be talking about the things that can be learned from my wife’s recent severe reaction to an Alzheimer’s drug. If you are a Caregiver, we hope it will be as informative as it was an education for me. Don’t miss it! Thank you for listening to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers | Episode 68 – Hurricane Season Safety Tips for Caregivers

In this heartfelt episode of Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards invites you into a conversation that shines light on the powerful, yet often overwhelming, journey of caregiving. Caregiving, especially for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, is one of the most important roles anyone can undertake. Today, Jeff is joined by guest George Cecere, who opens up about his own personal experience, sharing both the challenges and the meaningful moments that come with caring for a loved one. As always, GUTPUNCHED follows a simple, compassionate set of principles to help guide caregivers through the emotional and practical aspects of their journey. In this episode, Jeff emphasizes the following essential tenets: Take care of yourself: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care is crucial because if something happens to you, your loved one is left without support. You don’t have to do this alone: Lean on your community. Whether it’s a caregiver support group, family, or close friends, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Get organized: Make lists of people who have offered to help, and create a list of tasks that are overwhelming for you to handle on your own. Take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help to get things done. Create a “Help Signal”: Establish a simple phrase or cue that lets your loved one know it’s okay to accept help. This can ease anxiety and make caregiving moments more comfortable for both of you. Caregiving: Love it or hate it, it’s your life until it’s not: Pour your heart into it because caregiving, while challenging, brings profound moments of love and connection. This episode is a warm reminder that while caregiving can sometimes feel like an isolating experience, you are not alone. There are resources, support, and hope to be found, and GUTPUNCHED is here to walk alongside you every step of the way. If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review. And, if you know someone who might need a little extra support in their caregiving journey, share this podcast with them. There’s help and hope out there; all you need is to know where to find it, and that’s exactly what we’re here to help with. Thank you for listening to Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers  

In this heartfelt and candid episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards opens up about the unexpected challenges that life threw his way. Originally planned as a thoughtful interview with a Very Special Caregiver, the episode takes a different turn when Jeff shares a deeply personal and emotional update on his wife’s health. Jeff’s wife experienced a severe side effect from an amyloid-clearing drug, resulting in brain swelling and a brain bleed, leading to hospitalization. For a brief period, she lost the use of her left arm, leg, and vision in both eyes. Jeff reflects on the intense fear and uncertainty of the situation, offering thanks to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and the powerful network of prayer warriors who supported them through this crisis. The episode's tone is warm, serious, and raw, as Jeff expresses his gratitude for the care his wife received, and assures listeners that a more in-depth discussion will come in a later episode. Despite the setback, GutPunched carries on, delivering valuable resources for caregivers facing their own struggles. In a condensed format, Jeff shares insightful articles highlighting advancements in Alzheimer’s research, offering hope for those living with and caring for loved ones affected by the disease. In true GutPunched style, Jeff revisits the podcast’s essential tenets for caregivers, emphasizing self-care, the importance of asking for help, and utilizing a network of support. He also introduces the idea of a “Help Signal,” a simple yet effective way for caregivers and their loved ones to communicate and ensure that help is received with ease and comfort. This episode may be shorter than usual, but it’s filled with the same compassion, understanding, and practical advice that make GutPunched a vital resource for caregivers. Remember, you’re not alone—whether it’s the hard days or the good days, you’ve got a community here to lean on. Stay tuned for the upcoming full interview in the next episode!

In Episode 66, host Jeff Edwards reflects on a week that was “mixed, but mostly positive” — a theme echoed in the episode’s encouraging developments in Alzheimer’s research and caregiving support. Jeff shares personal insights from a busy week, including a promising meeting that may bring exciting news for the podcast’s Hispanic audience, and another eye-opening caregiver support meeting. While a planned segment featuring “A Different Kind of Caregiver” wasn’t ready in time for this episode, Jeff promises its arrival in the next installment. In the meantime, Episode 66 delivers a compelling lineup of new studies and stories: 🎶 Music and Brain Health: A new study suggests that playing a musical instrument may slow brain aging. 💊 Hope on the Horizon: A cancer drug combination shows potential to reverse Alzheimer’s symptoms. ⚠️ Medication Alert: A common chronic pain medication is now being linked to dementia. As always, Jeff revisits the core GutPunched Tenets, offering practical, heartfelt advice for caregivers — from self-care reminders to strategies for building a reliable support network and creating a help signal for loved ones. This episode also highlights vital resources like: The Dubin Center (dubincenter.com) Alzheimer’s Support Network (alzsupport.org) The Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Care Navigation Service – Call 855-271-2662 for free, personalized support And the newly formed GUTPUNCHED Facebook Group Jeff closes the episode with gratitude for the community helping to grow the podcast, and a heartfelt reminder: There is help and hope out there—you just need to know where to look. That’s why we’re here. 📧 Reach out: gutpunchedAC@outlook.com or jeff@gutpunched.com🌐 Learn more: gutpunched.com

Welcome to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, Episode 65!  Ever wondered what happens when Alzheimer’s, an author, a poet, dementia, a musician, and a nurse all walk into a room together? No, it’s not the setup for a bad joke—it’s the perfect mix for today’s podcast! Our guest today is Mr. Bob Shea from Elder Entertainment, a creative dynamo with a heart for Alzheimer's awareness. Bob, who wears many hats (author, poet, musician, nurse), joins host Jeff Edwards to share his unique perspective on Alzheimer's care and the healing power of creativity.  Plus, don’t miss the latest Alzheimer’s research! We wrap up with an article about a promising Diabetes Blood Test that could predict Alzheimer’s decline. Talk about medical breakthroughs Science is awesome and sometimes, even a little mind-blowing. As always, we start by revisiting the GutPunched Tenets—the rules we live by, because let’s face it, caregiving can be tough, and you’ve gotta be on top of your game to survive it: Take care of yourself—if you break down, who’s there for your loved one? You can’t do this alone—find a good support network. Make a list of people who’ve offered help. Write down what needs doing and go through the list until it’s all handled. Create a “help signal”—something that tells your loved one it's okay to get the help they need. Then we get a little poetic with a reading from Bob’s book, Peekaboo: I See Miracles—Musings of Musical Memories and Alzheimer’s Disease. A hauntingly beautiful first stanza of his poem “In Here” sets the stage for a conversation that’s as deep as it is creative. After the interview, Jeff and Bob share their thoughts on the magic that happens when creativity meets caregiving, a reminder that even in the toughest times, there’s always room for something meaningful and maybe even a little joyful. Whether you’re a caregiver or just curious, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and a touch of humor. So grab your coffee (or your harmonica) and tune in! Listen now! 🎙️ [gutpunched.com/] #Alzheimers #Caregivers #GutPunchedPodcast #ElderCare #AlzheimersAwareness #NewEpisode

In this episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards serves up some much-needed wisdom—and a side of humor—as he navigates the challenges caregivers face during long, hot summers with no holiday respite in sight. Can’t escape the heat, but you can take a moment to laugh and reflect with Jeff’s signature wit. As always, Jeff goes over the "Tennents" (yes, he means tenets) that guide this podcast, offering light yet essential advice for anyone in the caregiving trenches:  of your loved one? You can’t do it alone—find support through groups, friends, and family. Make a list—and use it! A list of people willing to help + tasks that need doing = one less stress for you. Create a help signal—find a cue or phrase that lets your loved one know it's okay to accept help. In this episode, Jeff also sits down with Cynthia Perthuis, a Senior Care expert from Senior Care Authority, New York & Florida. Together, they tackle the big, elephant-sized decision of moving your loved one into an assisted living community. Cynthia breaks it down for us: the where, the when, and most importantly, the how. Moving someone to a new care facility can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and approach, it’s more manageable than it seems. So, grab your list, find your support, and tune in for some much-needed tips on how to eat that metaphorical elephant—one bite at a time. It’s insightful. It’s practical. And yes, it’s still GutPunched, so you know we’re keeping it light along the way! #CaregiverLife #Alzheimers #SeniorCare #GutPunchedPodcast #ElderCare #SelfCare #AlzheimersSupport Thank you for listening to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers - Episode 64 How to Eat an Elephant! The Where, The When, The How.

🎧 🎧 New episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers! 🧠✨  On this week’s episode #63, Host Jeff Edwards talks about a Breakthrough: Brain Sugar Discovery that could change Alzheimer’s! Plus, tips on Reducing Inflammation to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s. And of course, the 4 tenets for Caregivers: Take care of YOU Ask for help (you can’t do it alone!) Make a list and get stuff DONE Create a “Help Signal” for your loved one Next week, Jeff chats with Cynthia Purthuis from Senior Care Authority—don’t miss it! Listen now! 🎧 #Alzheimers #Caregiving #BrainHealth #SelfCare #GutPunchedPodcast Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers

This week, Jeff explores the often-blurry line between the beginning and early middle stages of Alzheimer’s—and what that means for you, the caregiver. 🎙️ GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers – Ep. 62🧠 Beginning Stages vs. Early Middle Stages of Alzheimer’s👤 Host: Jeff Edwards | 🎧 Guest: Morgan Van Dyke 💬 Joined by fan-favorite guest Morgan Van Dyke (Ep. 51), they break down:✔️ Key similarities & differences between the stages✔️ Subtle changes in behavior & care needs✔️ Real-world strategies to adapt your caregiving Plus, a reminder of our four caregiver tenets:1️⃣ Take care of yourself2️⃣ Don’t go it alone – ask for help3️⃣ Use your support lists4️⃣ Create a “Help Signal” 🆘 💡 This episode is filled with honesty, hope, and small victories—including a positive update from Jeff’s Men’s Caregivers Group 🙌 🎆 As we head into July 4th, a reminder: caregiving doesn’t take holidays. Even 10 minutes of peace is a win. 🎧 Listen now—your caregiver's heart will thank you.#Alzheimers #CaregiverSupport #GutPunchedPodcast #DementiaCare #HopeInTheHard New Episode available on The Podcast Playground, PodBean, and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check  GUTPUNCHED.COM for the latest information Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers - Podcast - Apple Podcasts  

The Nose Knows: Smell test for Dementia; Dieting Can Be Helpful in Middle age to lower dementia risk, & Hurricane Season Preparedness for Dementia Caregivers In this episode, host Jeff Edwards brings a powerful mix of information and compassion to caregivers facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s.  This week’s episode dives into three key topics: The Nose Knows: How a simple smell test may help detect early dementia. Food for Thought: The impact of improving your diet in middle age to help lower dementia risk. Storm Season Preparedness: Hurricane readiness tips specifically tailored for dementia caregivers—practical, essential, and potentially lifesaving. As always, Jeff reminds listeners of the four foundational rules of caregiving—prioritizing self-care, asking for help, using your support lists, and creating a reliable help signal to ease transitions for your loved one. Whether you're deep in the caregiving trenches or preparing for the road ahead, this episode delivers practical insights, a touch of humor, and heartfelt encouragement to keep going.

In this heartfelt and eye-opening 60th episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards reflects on milestones, both personal and universal. It’s Father’s Day weekend, June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and we’ve hit 60 episodes of this powerful journey. Jeff kicks things off with a sobering yet timely question: Is there a connection between fathers who have Alzheimer’s and your own risk of developing it? Then Jeff sets the stage for an incredibly meaningful and sincere conversation with Dr. Ed Shaw about Keeping Love Alive As Memories Fade. Dr. Shaw is not only a former caregiver but also a four-time author, national speaker, part-time counselor, and leader of caregiver support groups. Most importantly, he speaks from experience, with clarity, compassion, and purpose. In this episode, he shares insights from his book, Keeping Love Alive as Memories Fade, introducing the Five Love Languages and how they can be adapted to deepen connection with loved ones who are living with dementia. This interview is more than informational; it’s deeply moving. Dr. Shaw’s personal stories and professional wisdom give caregivers a new lens to see their roles, and their relationships, with renewed empathy and hope. As always, Jeff reminds us of the four grounding rules that GutPunched listeners have come to rely on: Take care of yourself. You can't do this alone—get help. Make a list, and use it. Create a help signal for your loved one. This isn’t just another podcast episode—it’s a reminder of why caregiving matters, and how love, even in the face of memory loss, can still be nurtured and expressed. Listen in. Take notes. And above all, know you’re not alone. GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS.  GUTPUNCHED.COM Thank you for listening to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers – Episode 60 Fathers & Alzheimer’s: Is There a Connection?” And Keeping Love Alive As Memories Fade, Featuring  Author  Dr. Ed Shaw Let me know if you’d like a shorter version, one formatted for social media, or a podcast.

Host Jeff Edwards brings a quick-hit, high-impact episode this week on GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers. After deciding to shorten a few upcoming episodes for a bit of recharging time, Jeff still delivers valuable insights for caregivers and those affected by Alzheimer’s. In this episode, Jeff spotlights the Alzheimer’s Association’s new app, My ALZ Journey—a powerful, user-friendly mobile resource designed specifically to support individuals living with early-stage dementia. Learn how this app can provide practical help and support anytime, anywhere. Then, Jeff turns to one of his favorite topics: the healing power of music. Discover how music can help soothe depression in dementia patients, offering emotional relief and connection when words may fail. As always, Jeff reminds listeners of the core principles of caregiving: Take care of yourself first. Don’t go it alone—seek support. Make and use your help lists. Create a “help signal” for your loved one. Whether you’re a seasoned caregiver or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with accessible tools and heartfelt encouragement.