On today’s episode we’re exploring the stories behind the Walk to End Alzheimer’s flowers. We’re joined by Nancy Poulos of St. Johnsbury, VT who carries a purple flower symbolizing the loss of her mother to Alzheimer’s, and Frank Spinella of Middletown, RI who carries a yellow flower representing his role as a caregiver for his father. Together, Nancy and Frank open up about love, loss, caregiving, and what it means to stand among thousands of flowers that symbolize so many personal stories.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
In this episode, Dr. Stephen Salloway, principal investigator for the Rhode Island site of the U.S. POINTER study, joins us to discuss new findings showing that lifestyle changes can protect brain health and improve cognition in older adults at risk for dementia. This groundbreaking clinical trial highlights the power of structured support — including exercise, nutrition, cognitive training, and social engagement — to make a measurable difference.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by Dr. Fanny Elahi, associate professor of neurology and neuroscience at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, to help us unpack vascular dementia and the role vascular pathologies play in cognitive decline. She discusses why diagnosing vascular dementia remains complex, and how lifestyle factors like exercise can help reduce risk.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by two powerful advocates - Sean Terwilliger, who was recently diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s, and Tonya Maurer, a caregiver for her mother since 2017. Both attended the 2025 AIM Advocacy Forum in Washington, D.C., where more than 1,000 advocates from all 50 states came together to make their voices heard. In this episode, Sean and Tonya share what the experience meant to them, what they learned, and why advocacy is more important than ever in the fight against Alzheimer’s.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode, we explore a common but often overlooked challenge for people living with Alzheimer’s: depression. While memory loss and confusion are widely recognized, the emotional impact often goes undiscussed. We’re joined by Dr. Julia Salinas, Geriatric Psychiatrist and Medical Director at Tufts Medicine’s Memory Care Program, to discuss how overlapping symptoms can make a diagnosis difficult, how to identify depression in loved ones living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and how depression is treated to improve quality of life.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by Alison Dvorak, a registered dietician and certified nutritionist, to explore how everyday nutrition choices can support brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline. She discusses the elements of brain-healthy diets, choosing smarter snacks, and tips for making better choices when eating on the go or dining out.For more information on brain-healthy nutrition, join us for the Alzheimer’s Association special virtual education series in honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. To register, visit alz.org/manh/events/ABAM.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode we explore younger-onset Alzheimer’s and how a diagnosis at this stage impacts the whole family –especially children and teens who may struggle to understand and cope. We’re joined by Diana Cose, founder of Lorenzo’s House, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families affected by younger-onset Alzheimer’s, and Patti LaFleur, a daughter who navigated her mother’s diagnosis. Together, they share their powerful stories, the idea of dementia justice, and insights on the unique challenges and support needs of younger families facing dementia.For more information on our virtual program ‘Supporting Families of Younger Onset: A Panel Discussion and Virtual Screening' featuring Lorenzo’s House click here. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we're joined by country artist Jay Allen who turned his personal pain into powerful purpose after losing his mother to early-onset Alzheimer’s. Jay shares how her diagnosis changed his life, led him to write the viral hit “Blank Stares,” and sparked a nationwide movement for awareness and fundraising. Jay also discusses the healing power of music and how he's using his platform to honor his mother’s legacy and help others facing this devastating disease.For more information on Hope on the Harbor visit alz.org/manh/events/hope-on-the-harbor. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
As he prepares to retire after 27 years as the leader and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter, Jim Wessler joins us to reflect on decades of progress in Alzheimer’s awareness, care, and public policy. Jim shares the stories and people who inspired his work, pivotal moments in the fight against Alzheimer’s including research breakthroughs, and the critical work that still lies ahead in the fight against this growing public health crisis. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode, we explore the power of art as a way to process, connect, and cope while navigating Alzheimer’s. We’re joined by abstract artist Nat Connacher of Stamford, CT who shares how his "Connecting Moments" series became an outlet for processing his mother’s Alzheimer’s journey. We discuss how how creativity can be an effective tool for anyone facing Alzheimer’s — whether you're a caregiver, a loved one, or someone living with the disease.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by Teresa Pineau of Connecticut, whose lifelong friend Toni was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at just 47. From high school memories to motherhood and beyond, Theresa shares how their friendship changed as the disease progressed—and what it means to truly show up for a friend facing Alzheimer’s.Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by Dr. Gillian Coughlan, a research fellow in neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, for a conversation on menopause, cognitive aging, and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Coughlan breaks down the link between menopause and Alzheimer’s risk, plus sex differences in the disease. She also shares insights from her recent study on the timing of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its potential to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode, we continue our conversation about Alzheimer’s treatments—this time, from a patient’s perspective. Tracey Collins from Portland, ME, joins us to share her journey, from the moment of diagnosis to navigating treatment options and receiving Leqembi. She opens up about what the treatment process is like, her hopes for the future, and even how she’s found a unique way to reframe her infusions—seeing them as a “spa day.”Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by Dr. Daniel Press, Chief of the Cognitive Neurology Unit at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), who has been administering Leqembi (lecanemab) to patients since its FDA approval. He discusses his experience delivering the treatment — the process from administering the infusions to monitoring for side effects. He also offers insights into managing expectations, the challenges, and how his patients have responded to this new Alzheimer’s therapy. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode we’re joined by Dr. Carl Hill, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for the Alzheimer’s Association, to discuss the disproportionate impact of Alzheimer’s on communities of color and the need for equitable access to diagnosis, care, and support. Dr. Hill discusses the cultural and systemic challenges contributing to these disparities and what work needs to be done to help bridge the gap in Alzheimer’s care. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
Today we’re joined by Dr. Katherine Amodeo, a Movement Disorders Specialist for the Department of Neurology at Westchester Medical Center, to shed light on one of the often overlooked types of dementia, Lewy Body Dementia. We explore the two related conditions—dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD)— and discuss how they differ from Alzheimer’s, as well as the unique challenges faced by those living with the disease and their caregivers. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today's episode, as we close out Season 1, we're sharing some of the most powerful, moving, and inspiring clips from our very first season of Speaking of Alzheimer's. Hear some of the unforgettable moments from people living with the disease, caregivers, researchers, advocates, and so many remarkable individuals who have let us in. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today's episode we're joined by daughter of the legendary Tony Bennett, Antonia. She shares her powerful story of love, music, and navigating her father’s journey with Alzheimer’s. She also discusses how their musical bond became a source of strength and connection. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode we’re continuing our conversation on navigating the holidays. We’re joined by Jo Cotto, Sr. Programs Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association VT Chapter, and Annie Murphy, Sr. Programs Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association RI Chapter, to discuss subtle signs that can arise during holiday gatherings when you might notice a loved one struggling with memory, focus, or familiar routines. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).
On today’s episode, as we enter the holiday season, we’re discussing navigating this time of year with a loved one living with dementia. We’re joined by our very own experts, Nicole McGurin, Programs Director for the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter and Esther Pearl, Programs Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association CT Chapter. We explore strategies to make these gatherings meaningful and manageable for everyone involved, and offer tips for helping family members understand and adapt to changing needs. Need assistance? Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).