Alzheimer's Talks

BrainStorm wants to hear from you! Send us a text.In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer talks with Jay Reinstein, a former assistant city manager in North Carolina, about his 12 to15-month journey involving neuropsychological testing and brain scans before being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at age 57. Rather than retreat from public life, Jay transformed his diagnosis into a platform for advocacy, serving on national boards including Voices of Alzheimer's and lobbying Congress for more funding. The episode covers the benefits of early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, support groups, and innovative programs like the Sunflower Lanyard for travelers with hidden disabilities. Jay emphasizes his fight to reduce the stigma of Alzheimer's while honestly discussing its challenges.Learn how you can share your personal story at stories@usagainstalzheimers.org.Support the show

BrainStorm wants to hear from you! Send us a text.In this episode of BrainStorm Nancy Treaster, a certified caregiving advocate and co-host of The Caregiver's Journey podcast, shares her professional and personal experiences with host Meryl Comer. Their conversation focuses on agitation, one of the most challenging aspects of dementia care, affecting more than half of all Alzheimer's patients in terms of quality of life while increasing caregiver burden. Treaster emphasizes the importance of being a "detective" when agitation occurs and identifying potential medical triggers before exploring other causes. They also share practical coping strategies while emphasizing the critical need for caregiver self-care. Don't miss out on the caregiving advice they share from their own lived experiences. In addition, learn how you can share your personal story at stories@usagainstalzheimers.org. BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Lundbeck. Support the show

BrainStorm wants to hear from you! Send us a text.This episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's features Muffy Walker, a psychiatric nurse, and founder of the International Bipolar Foundation.  Her new novel Memory Weavers is based on her professional and personal experiences caring for family members with Alzheimer's disease and issues of mental illness that inspire her advocacy work. Her novel explores how one person with fading memories from Alzheimer's and another with PTSD, who can't escape traumatic memories, find and support each other. Along With BrainStorm host Meryl Comer, Walker delves into the persistent stigma surrounding both conditions, the challenges of caregiving, advances in early diagnosis through genetic testing, and the impact of intergenerational trauma. Her novel includes valuable resources now available to patients and caregivers that weren't accessible when her mother was diagnosed 23 years ago. This is a must listen episode!Support the show

BrainStorm wants to hear from you! Send us a text.in this episode of the "BrainStorm" by UsAgainstAlzheimer's, George Vradenburg, Co-founder and Chairman of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, and Russ Paulsen, the organization's Chief Operating Officer, discuss the impact of the Trump administration's policies on Alzheimer's research with host Meryl Comer. The conversation highlights the systematic dismantling of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other critical agencies, which threatens to undermine Alzheimer's research and public health. Vradenburg and Paulsen express concerns about the lack of transparency in the reorganization and the potential negative effects on drug reviews and approvals due to significant cuts at the FDA. They highlight the importance of protecting key programs that support seniors and the potential global impact of these policy changes. Despite the challenges, both Paulsen and Vradenburg are optimism about scientific advances in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's, including the development of blood tests and new treatments. Hear the call to action for listeners to advocate for continued support for Alzheimer's research and to contact their members of Congress to ensure that funding remains a priority. This is a must listen episode!  This episode is sponsored by Genentech.Support the show

We want to hear from you! Send us a text.Journalist and author Greg O'Brien, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's over a decade ago, shares with BrainStorm host Meryl his determination to be heard at the Washington D.C. rally at the Lincoln Memorial to protest proposed cuts to NIH biomedical research funding that would critically affect Alzheimer's disease research.  Greg also candidly shares what it takes for him to navigate at this late stage in the disease.This episode also features a TopLine commentary by George Vradenburg, founder and chair of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, on the mobilization of patient advocacy organizations across diseases fighting to maintain the integrity of America's biomedical and scientific research.This episode is sponsored by Genentech.Support the show

In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer continues explore the challenges of dementia diagnosis in her interview with Doreen Monks, a former neuroscience nurse practitioner, who initially received an Alzheimer's diagnosis that was revised eight years later. The conversation highlights issues in the dementia diagnosis process, the gap between scientific advances and clinical practice, and the emotional journey of living with a neurodegenerative condition. Doreen Monks' personal journey offers both practical advice and emotional support for others facing similar challenges, emphasizing hope, proactive health management, and the importance of scientific advances reaching clinical practice more efficiently.This episode provides valuable insights for patients and caregivers navigating dementia diagnoses while highlighting the rapidly evolving understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Take a listen!BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Genentech (gene.com)Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

What if your life and career were upended with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's only to learn eight years later that the diagnosis was wrong?  In this BrainStorm episode, host Meryl Comer talks with Doreen Monks, a former neuroscience nurse practitioner, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at 63 years old. Doreen shares her emotional and professional experiences, the frustration of misdiagnoses, and the advice she has for others navigating similar challenges. They also discuss the crucial role physicians and caregivers have in empowering those with dementia.Tune in to hear real, raw conversations about ways the stigma of Alzheimer's trends younger and how to adjust to find purpose and support along the way.Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

Learning about an Alzheimer's diagnosis in your family is never easy. When you are an iconic music legend like Tony Bennet with legions of adoring fans, it is front page news. Antonia and Johanna Bennett, daughters of the late Tony Bennett, candidly discuss their emotional reactions to learning about their father's diagnosis. They share their concern for their father and fears about their own cognitive futures with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Hear more about the challenges faced by the family and Tony's final performances with Lady Gaga. You won't want to miss this heartfelt episode. Support the show

Alzheimer's is not just an aging issue but a lifelong brain health challenge that has major economic and societal implications. George Vradenburg, Chairman and Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, discusses the recent launch of the “Brian House” at Davos World Economic Forum with host Meryl Comer.  The conversation covers several crucial topics, including the potential role of AI in enhancing brain capacity, the state of Alzheimer's research funding, and the importance of diverse representation in clinical trials. Vradenburg emphasizes the global scope of the challenge stating that brain disorders are now the world's leading cause of disability with projected costs reaching $8-10 trillion by 2050.  You don't want to miss this informative episode!Support the show

In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer continues her compelling interview with "Rockstar of Science" Dr. Rudy Tanzi, the pioneering Director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit and Director of the McCance Center for Brain Health at Mass General Hospital. Dr. Tanzi unveils the secrets of brain health and Alzheimer's research. Exploring his innovative SHIELD framework, Dr. Tanzi offers practical strategies for cognitive wellness, from sleep and stress management to diet and lifelong learning.The episode takes an innovative turn with AI-generated questions that probe the challenges of Alzheimer's research. Dr. Tanzi provides candid insights into prevention, early intervention, and the future of medical science, sharing an unexpectedly optimistic view of combating cognitive decline. Blending scientific expertise with actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in brain health, aging, and medical innovation.Support the show

Join BrainStorm host Meryl Comer as she kicks off 2025 with "Rockstar of Science" Dr. Rudy Tanzi, the pioneering Director of Genetics and Aging Research and Director of the McCance Center for Brain Health at Mass General Hospital. Dr. Tanzi delves into the new FDA-approved drugs, early cognitive blood tests, and why treating Alzheimer's should mirror our approach to heart disease by focusing on prevention long before symptoms appear. Drawing from his decades of research, Dr. Tanzi shares his vision for the future: a simple daily pill that could prevent Alzheimer's just like statins prevent heart disease. Whether you are concerned about brain health or fascinated by cutting-edge medical science, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom from one of the field's most influential voices. You don't want to miss it!Support the show

In part 2 of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer and Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver and Dean of Yale Divinity School, delve into maintaining dignity while living with Alzheimer's and dealing with guilt when transitioning loved ones to memory care. Dr. Chopp shares how spirituality and religious practices can help those with dementia, including the role of music and ritual in connecting with memories. The episode also stresses the importance of early conversations about care preferences and advocacy as a way for caregivers to maintain their identity while fighting the disease. Dr. Chopp, author of Still Me: Accepting Alzheimer's Without Losing Yourself, offers spiritual insights into interacting with loved ones who have Alzheimer's. You don't want to miss this poignant and informative episode!Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

Spirituality can often be used to provide support to families and caregivers coping with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias.  Diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2019, Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver and Dean of Yale Divinity School, talks about her spiritual journey with host Meryl Comer. Dr. Chopp shares her personal story of being raised in an agnostic family to becoming a theologian. She explores spirituality and faith while offering insights into acceptance, grief, and maintaining one's sense of self while living with Alzheimer's disease. Chopp, author of Still Me: Accepting Alzheimer's Without Losing Yourself, shares how she reshaped her life for a healthy and vibrant approach to finding meaning while living with Alzheimer's. You don't want to miss the heartfelt episode!Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

Music and the arts have a positive impact on brain health, mental well-being, and quality of life. Renée Fleming, World Renowned Soprano and Global Arts Health Advocate shares the latest science behind the healing power of music and the brain with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Fleming's anthology, Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health and Wellness, is a collection of essays about the powerful impact of music on health and human experiences, particularly how it plays a critical role to help preserve memory. In part 2 of the interview Fleming discusses the need for greater integration of the arts into the healthcare system and the role AI can play in advancing music related medical research.  You won't want to miss this conversation highlighting the intersection of art, music, and science. Support for BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is provided by Eisai. Support the show

The latest research shows that not only does music play an important role in the development of cognitive, emotional, and social abilities in children, but it also benefits cognitive functioning in older adults, including those suffering from dementia.In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer sits down with Dr. Assal Habibi, Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Brain and Creativity Institute and Director of the Center for Music Brain and Society at the University of Southern California. Dr. Habibi's essay in the anthology Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health highlights the benefit of musical engagement across the lifespan.You won't want to miss this episode of BrainStorm's six-part series that showcases researchers & clinicians featured in Renee Fleming's anthology Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health.Sponsored by Eisai Support the show

Long-term and health care costs for people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias are projected to reach $360 billion in the Unites States this year. In part 2 of the interview with Investment Advisor and New York Times Bestselling author Ric Edelman, host Meryl Comer asks about the financial challenges faced by families dealing with Alzheimer's. Listen to the advice Edleman has about long-term care insurance and mistakes individuals commonly make in planning for retirement. You won't want to miss this informative episode of BrainStorm!BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Biogen and EisaiSupport the show

Alzheimer's disease can devastate families financially and requires smart financial planning for healthy longevity. Investment Advisor and New York Times bestselling author Ric Edelman and host Meryl Comer discuss the financial implications of Alzheimer's. Mr. Edelman highlights a few common financial mistakes individuals often make, including procrastination in planning for retirement. Better diagnostic tools for Alzheimer's and the importance of early detection are needed to help manage the building economic burden of the disease on individuals and society. You won't want to miss this informative episode of BrainStorm! BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Biogen and EisaiSupport the show

When it comes to brain health, it can be information overload. Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai, co-directors of the Brain Health and Alzheimer's Prevention Program at Loma Linda University give their perspective on brain health supplements and the tests to have your doctor administer. In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's, host Meryl Comer also delves into the couple's research and the difficulties of recruitment. Their work, featured in the Netflix documentary You Are What You Eat, shows the crucial role diet plays in brain health. BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Biogen and EisaiSupport the show

Can small adjustments to lifestyle make a difference for healthy longevity? In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's, host Meryl Comer focuses on Alzheimer's prevention with Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai, co-directors of the Brain Health and Alzheimer's Prevention Program at Loma Linda University. The couple's research, including their work featured in the Netflix documentary You Are What You Eat, shows that diet plays a crucial role in brain health. Their discussion underscores that every positive step can lead to substantial benefits in brain health and Alzheimer's prevention. Up to 90% of Alzheimer's cases can be prevented with optimal lifestyle changes, according to the Sherzais. You don't want to miss this episode. BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Biogen and EisaiSupport the show

How does someone with a movement disorder that effects executive functioning suddenly move to music with a dance tempo?  Concetta M. Tomaino, Executive Director and Co-founder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, and long-time collaborator with famed British neurologist Oliver Sacks, explores the power of music to reach those with dementia and other neurologic conditions. Tomaino dives into the research with host, Meryl Comer on ways to use music to awaken cognitive reserve in our loved ones deep into late-stage Alzheimer's disease.  You won't want to miss this episode in BrainStorm's six-part series that showcases researchers & clinicians featured in Renee Fleming's anthology Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health. Support for BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is provided by Biogen and Genentech. Support the Show.

How can someone with supposedly no memory recognize a familiar melody? Concetta M. Tomaino, Executive Director and Co-founder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, and long-time collaborator with famed British neurologist Oliver Sacks, dives into the research with host, Meryl Comer. Tomaino shares clinical techniques to help us reach and awaken cognitive reserve in our loved ones with music deep into late-stages of Alzheimer's disease.  You won't want to miss this episode in BrainStorm's six-part series that showcases researchers & clinicians featured in Renee Fleming's anthology Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health.Support for BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is provided by Biogen and Genentech.   Support the Show.

Lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia. A recent study by Dr. Dean Ornish, Founder and President of The Preventative Medicine Research Institute, suggests actual reversal of Alzheimer's symptoms without medication. In part 2, host Meryl Comer and Dr. Ornish further discuss the findings of his study published in Alzheimer's Research & Therapy. Listen as they talk about the success of his nine-week Medicare-covered program for heart disease, which could be adapted for Alzheimer's patients. You won't want to miss this episode that gives hope for those with cognitive decline. Support the Show.

Imagine being able to fight the effects of Alzheimer's through changes to the way you live your daily life. Dr. Dean Ornish sits down with host Meryl Comer to discuss the findings of his study published in Alzheimer's Research & Therapy. Lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise not only can reduce the risk of developing dementia, but this study also suggests actual reversal of Alzheimer's symptoms without medication. Listen to Dr. Ornish's approach that is adding to the treatment options and giving hope, as well as a roadmap, in the fight against cognitive decline.Support the Show.

How personal and meaningful are music and the arts to your brain health, mental well-being, and quality of life? Renée Fleming, World Renowned Soprano and Global Arts Health Advocate shares the latest science behind the intersection of arts and health with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Fleming's new anthology, Music and Mind: Harnessing the Arts for Health and Wellness, is a collection of essays about the powerful impact of music on health and the human experience. You won't want to miss this first episode in BrainStorm's six-part series that explores the findings and speaks to scientists featured in Music and Mind.Support for BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is provided by Genentech Support the Show.

Join us for part 2 of BrainStorm's interview with Dr. Suzanne LeBlang, Director of Clinical Relations at Focused Ultrasound Foundation (www.fusfoundation.org). Host Meryl Comer and Dr. LeBlang discuss eligibility criteria and applications for the ground-breaking technology of focused ultrasound – a non-invasive procedure for treating tremors in Parkinson's disease and those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This technological advancement can target and treat tissue deep within the brain, enhance drug delivery, and facilitate the removal of amyloid plaques. As featured on CBS 60 Minutes, patients are awake during this transformational procedure.  You won't want to miss part 2 of this interview! Support the Show.

There is an experimental and promising procedure for treating of Alzheimer's that is giving hope to the nearly 7 million Americans living with this disease. Dr. Suzanne LeBlang, Director of Clinical Relations at Focused Ultrasound Foundation, discusses this new non-invasive technology with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Focused ultrasound can target and treat tissue deep within the brain offering potential benefits that can enhance drug delivery and facilitate the removal of amyloid plaques without the need for surgery. This groundbreaking progress of opening the blood-brain barrier that was featured on CBS 60 Minutes could transform care and quality of life for patients suffering Parkinson's to Alzheimer's.  You won't want to miss this episode!Support the Show.

Traditionally two-thirds of unpaid family caregivers have been women, but that is changing. Men now account for more than 40% of those caring for a spouse or aging parent with dementia. Former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber talks with host Meryl Comer about his caregiving journey. Schreiber recounts his wife by his side during 16 years in public service, but his decade plus journey as her caregiver provides insight that he shares in his book, My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer's Caregiver. Schreiber discusses how to handle the challenges faced by male caregivers when it comes to managing intimate tasks of daily living and shares personal anecdotes. When asked how he endured, he replied “I remember the good times.” You won't want to miss this episode!Support the Show.

Join us for part 2 of BrainStorm's interview with Dr. Brent Forester, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry, and Director of Behavioral Health at Tufts Medical Center. Host Meryl Comer and Dr. Forester discuss the need for a change of mindset by the medical community and the public in general when it comes to dementia.Dr. Forester, author of The Complete Family Guide to Dementia, Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Parent and Yourself, explains how countless families grappling with the complexities of caring for a parent with dementia are frustrated by the scarcity of neurologists. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on what can be done for people with dementia rather than dwelling on limitations. His advice to caregivers - adopt a "caring smarter, not harder" approach. Comer and Dr. Forester delve into strategies for observing and addressing behavioral symptoms in dementia patients, as well as as new FDA approved treatment for psychosis and agitation in AD. Whether you're directly impacted by dementia or not, you'll leave this episode with valuable insights. Tune in today!This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck. Support the show

If you're facing the challenge of caring for a parent with dementia, you are not alone. In this episode of BrainStorm Brent Forester, MD, MSc, Psychiatrist in Chief, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry, and Director of Behavioral Health at Tufts Medical Center, discussed the complexity of dementia care and the importance of a holistic approach with host Meryl Comer. Dr. Forester, author of The Complete Family Guide to Dementia, everything You Need to Know to Help Your Parent and Yourself, provided crucial insight for effective management of behaviors, and tips to facilitate communication with healthcare providers. The needs of both patients and caregivers must always be considered during the decision-making process.  You won't want to miss this episode!This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

Join us for part 2 of BrainStorm's interview with Dr. Pierre Tariot, former Director for Banner Alzheimer's Institute and Co-Director of The International Alzheimer's Prevention Project. Host Meryl Comer asks Dr. Tariot, who has devoted his career to the care and study of people with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease, about the neuropsychiatric features of dementia. Dr. Tariot highlights the advancements in understanding and treating these behaviors associated with Alzheimer's.  You won't want to miss this episode. This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.Support the show

By 2030, all baby boomers will be 65 years of age or older, equating to over 71 million people. As the aging population grows, a shortage of neurologists and geriatric doctors puts early diagnosis in jeopardy. In this episode of BrainStorm Dr. Pierre Tariot, former Director for Banner Alzheimer's Institute and Co-Director of The International Alzheimer's Prevention Project discussed the challenges of diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's disease with a shortage of neurologists. Host Meryl Comer and Dr. Tariot, who has devoted his career to the care and study of people with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease, talk about the importance of early detection for effective treatment. You won't want to miss this episode!This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.Support the show

In part two of our interview with Dr. Rudy Tanzi, host Meryl Comer, asked about the different brain health supplements currently on the market and their ability to increase cognitive longevity.  Dr. Tanzi, Director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit, Director of The McCance Center for Brain Health at Massachusetts General Hospital, and Kennedy Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School also spoke about the role AI plays in accelerating clinical trials. You won't want to miss part 2 of the interview!SHIELD - Sleep, Handle stress, Interact with others, Exercise, Learn new things, DietSupport the show

Brain health and lifestyle interventions play an important role in longevity.  Dr. Rudy Tanzi, Director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit, Director of The McCance Center for Brain Health at Massachusetts General Hospital, and Kennedy Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, spoke with host Meryl Comer about the latest brain health research. Dr. Tanzi explains the tools for presymptomatic detection and the importance of early diagnosis. Listen as they discuss the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise, and what he's learned about super agers. You won't want to miss this episode! SHIELD - Sleep, Handle stress, Interact with others, Exercise,  Learn new things, DietSupport the show

Breakthrough advances in research coupled with health-conscious strategies around brain health continue to bring us closer to the prevention of Alzheimer's and related dementias In part 2 of a conversation with George Vradenburg, Chairman and Co-Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimers, discusses the shift in the Alzheimer's treatment paradigm as well as prevention that comes along with people taking ownership of their brain health. Medicine, along with a healthy lifestyle, can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and other diseases. Listen as we discuss what the future holds when it comes to beating this disease globally. Co-produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

2023 has brought exciting advances in the prevention, detection, and treatment of Alzheimer's.  George Vradenburg, Chairman and Co-Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, Chairman of the Global CEOi and Founding Chair with the Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative, spoke with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer about the shared research commitment to get a vaccine, or immunotherapy intervention, on market by the end of the decade. Listen as George discusses the challenges to make a future free of Alzheimer's a reality.  Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger. Support the show

Lewy Body Dementia, the second most progressive form of dementia impacting one million people in the US, is often confused with Alzheimer's disease. In part 2 of BrainStorm's interview with Mary Lou Falcone, author of “I Didn't See It Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss and Lewy Body Dementia” she describes her very personal journey with her husband Nicky Zann, famed musician and painter. She reflects with host Meryl Comer what prepared her for her caregiving role, and both candidly offers advice to other caregivers on intimate issues that rarely get discussed. You won't want to miss it!Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

Lewy Body Dementia is the second most progressive form of dementia after Alzheimer's and impacts an estimated one million individuals in the United States. Symptoms typically present at age 50 or older and are often confused with Alzheimer's disease. Like Alzheimer's, there is no cure. In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer talks with Mary Lou Falcone, author of “I Didn't See It Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss and Lewy Body Dementia.” Listen as they discuss her very personal journey with her husband Nicky Zann, an accomplished rock and roll musician who became a world-renowned cartoonist and painter, to get to an accurate diagnosis.Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

The care partner perspective is essential to break through the silence and stigma of Alzheimer's disease. In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer continues her conversation with Leigh Callahan, a respected epidemiologist and researcher about caregiving. Her husband, Dr. John Winfield, had a distinguished career as a researcher and rheumatologist until Alzheimer's changed everything. Listen as Dr. Callahan reflects on the insight she gained as care partner of her husband throughout his Alzheimer's journey.This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

The care partner is the keeper of the secrets and their perspective is essential to break through the silence and stigma of Alzheimer's disease. In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer talks with Leigh Callahan, a respected epidemiologist and researcher focused on rheumatic disease. Her husband, Dr. John Winfield, had a distinguished career as a researcher and rheumatologist until Alzheimer's changed everything. Dr. Callahan shares her experience as she navigated her husband's journey, sharing that the first signs of disease - agitation, irritation, and frustration - are not typically identified as symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Listen as they discuss the challenges before and after a diagnosis. This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.Support the show

Chronic loneliness affects young and old and has been cited by the 21st US Surgeon General, Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy, MD as a major health crisis.  Research shows that loneliness can reduce life expectancy by 30% and increases the risk of dementia by 40%, Dr. Jeremy Nobel, a primary care physician and public health expert on the faculty at the Harvard Medical School, is Founder and President of the Foundation for Art and Healing. In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer and Dr. Nobel discuss his new book “Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection”. Listen as they discuss the connection between loneliness and symptoms of Alzheimer's. Sponsored by The Otsuka-Lundbeck AllianceSupport the show

There is nothing more powerful than the stories of people who are directly affected by Alzheimer's. This week's BrainStorm host, Jon Summers, Chief Communications Officer at UsAgainstAlzheimer's, spoke with a few patients and caregivers who share their deeply personal experiences to help raise awareness of Alzheimer's. They discuss the disproportionate impact of the disease on Black and Latino people, and the hope they have for the future.UsAgainstAlzheimer's lifts voices of Alzheimer's patients and caregivers to raise awareness of the disease, educate, and eliminate stigma. The UsAgainstAlzheimer's Story Project—Voices of Hope, Inspiration and Courage is made possible by an educational grant provided by Biogen. Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

What do technology, AI and the Arts have in common? In part 2 of an interview with Susan Magsamen, founder and director of the International Arts and Mind Lab Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Ms. Magsamen talks with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer about how technology and AI are best used to advance the evolving science of neuroaesthetics. Neuroaesthetics is an expanding field of research aimed at the intersection of psychological aesthetics, biological mechanisms, and human evolution. Ms. Magsamen is also co-author of the New York Times Bestseller, Your Brain on Art, How the Arts Transform Us. Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger.Support the show

Art for Art's sake is about to become passe with the emerging science of neuroaesthetics, an expanding field of research aimed at the intersection of psychological aesthetics, biological mechanisms, and human evolution. Susan Magsamen, founder and director of the International Arts and Mind Lab Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine talks with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer about the health and healing benefits when we participate in the arts. Ms. Magsamen is also co-author of the New York Times Bestseller, Your Brain on Art, How the Arts Transform Us. Support the show

Alzheimer's disease spares no one… and this story could easily be anyone's story. Debra Tann Ed D., author of The Race of Dementia talks with host Meryl Comer about juggling her advocacy work while caring for her husband who is at home with dementia. Recipient of the 2023 Bright Focus Foundation Community Impact Award, Dr. Tann breaks the silence of the Alzheimer's journey and talks about the stigma and need for access to health services for all.  This episode is sponsored by Eisai.Support the show

The Alzheimer's journey tests and complicates the interpersonal dynamics in families as they try to protect the dignity and privacy of their loved ones. When the family is influential and privileged it's even harder.  That's why breaking the silence of the journey is both a gift and a necessity to break through the stigma of the disease. In this episode of BrainStorm, Lily Johnson White speaks out for the first time six years after the passing of her mother, a philanthropist and storied New York socialite. Lily shares her determination to help other families and sheds light on the need for early diagnosis, specially trained physicians, caregivers, and a support system of friends because as she says “it takes a community”.This episode is Sponsored by Eisai.Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber RonigerSupport the show

Should Alzheimer's drugs be treated like all other drugs when it comes to Medicare coverage? The Alliance for Aging Research CEO Sue Peschin and BrainStorm host Meryl Comer dive into polling data that reveals most American voters, regardless of party, disagree with CMS's policy that will limit access. Their conversation sheds light on how the coverage decision, if it stands, will create not only greater disparities, but also have wide-ranging implications on coverage for other disease-modifying therapies.This episode is sponsored by Eisai.Support the show

 Alzheimer's is being singled out in Medicare's decision on reimbursement for patients. President of Global Alzheimer's Platform Foundation and Co-Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, John Dwyer spoke with host Meryl Comer about the ramification to patients and how this decision will create greater disparities. Take a listen.This episode is sponsored by Genentech and Eisai. Support the show

We the Scientists: How a Daring Team of Parents and Doctors Forged a New Path for MedicinePulitzer Prize winning Wall Street Reporter Amy Marcus, in her new book We the Scientists, discusses a rare disease often likened to Children's Alzheimer's with BrainStorm Host Meryl Comer. Not only are the patients young, but their parents are desperate to help scientists find a drug to slow disease progression to extend their lives. Most children, born seemingly normal, rarely live beyond the age of 20. The common thread is advancing the science with new pathways for treating disease and conducting research. In the process to accelerate new drug development, science may be forever changed. Listen to part 2 of the interview with Amy Dockser Marcus and hear her thoughts on if this new collaborative research model could work for elderly populations with long-term chronic diseases like Alzheimer's.This episode is sponsored by Genentech and Eisai.If you have recommendations for topics or guests, email us at BrainStorm@usagainstalzheimers.org. To learn more go to: https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/Support the show

We the Scientists: How a Daring Team of Parents and Doctors Forged A New Path for Medicine Pulitzer Prize winning Wall Street Reporter Amy Marcus, in her new book We the Scientists, discusses a rare disease often likened to Children's Alzheimer's with BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer. Not only are the patients young, but their parents are desperate to help scientists find a drug to slow disease progression to extend their lives. Most children, born seemingly normal, rarely live beyond the age of 20. The common thread is advancing the science with new pathways for treating disease and conducting research. In the process to accelerate new drug development, science may be forever changed.This episode of BrainStorm is sponsored by Genentech and Eisai.For more information about this episode and a search to cure Alzheimer's go to UsAgainstAlzheimers.orgSupport the show

Want to improve your brain's performance? Find out the latest from Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, Founder and Chief Director of The Center for BrainHealth at the University of Texas at Dallas. In this episode Dr. Chapman talks about progress on the world's largest brain health study to measure improvements after training the brain.  No matter what your age, learn to maximize your cognitive potential to be as sharp as you were in your 30s and 40s. This episode of BrainStorm is sponsored by Genentech and Eisai. For more information about this episode and a search to cure Alzheimer's go to UsAgainstAlzheimers.orgSupport the show

Want to improve your brain's performance? Why not? You're using it anyway. Find out the latest from Dr. Sandi Bond Chapman, Founder and Chief Director of The Center for BrainHealth at the University of Texas at Dallas. In this episode Dr. Chapman talks about how to maximize your cognitive potential with the goal, no matter what your age, to be as sharp as you were in your 30s and 40s. To learn more about BrainStorm go to usagainstalzheimers.org.BrainStorm is sponsored by Genentech.Support the show