Caregiving Episodes
Are you part of a care team for a person living cognitive impairment or dementia? Listen to the episodes below to hear strategies and support for navigating life as a caregiver.
“I believe we need to start talking about what people have left, how they shine and how we support them in what kind of care we provide.”
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Navigating Difficult Conversations about Driving and Dementia
Driving can be a sensitive topic as a person gets older, and especially so when someone begins experiencing cognitive decline or is diagnosed with dementia. How can family members and care partners discuss their concerns about a loved one’s ability to drive while still…
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Taking a Positive Approach to Dementia Care with Strategies from Teepa Snow
Caring for someone living with dementia can be both deeply meaningful and incredibly challenging. Finding effective ways to connect, communicate and provide support often requires shifting how we see and respond to changes in the brain. In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, renowned…
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A Guide to Grief: Strategies for Navigating Loss and Dementia
Grief is a complex topic for people with dementia, their loved ones, caregivers and doctors to navigate. Dr. Erica Srinivasan, an expert on the psychology behind grief, joins the podcast to discuss the different kinds of grief people can experience and share strategies and…
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Identifying and Addressing Changes in Decision-Making Ability with Capacity Testing
As an individual develops dementia, they may need support in many areas of their lives. One of these areas is decision-making, particularly regarding health care decisions, but how can someone or their loved one determine if they need support with decision-making? To answer these…
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Explaining Dementia to Kids Through the Power of Children’s Books
Having a relative or loved one receive a dementia diagnosis can be challenging for families, especially for families with children. How can parents, guardians and other adults explain these complex memory and thinking changes to children in a way they’ll understand? One possible way…
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Putting a ‘Spotlight on Care’: Caregivers Help Other Caregivers Through Podcast Series
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia can be challenging, with no two journeys being the same. Who better to turn to for caregiving support, tips and advice, then, than other caregivers who have been on similar paths? Steve…
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Shining Light on Younger-Onset Dementia with Lorenzo’s House
Dementia diagnoses affect families in many different ways. One of the most challenging to navigate is that of younger-onset dementia (YOD), a form of dementia that affects someone below the age of 65. This diagnosis can be particularly jarring for young families, as resources,…
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‘Tis the Season: Navigating the Holidays as a Dementia Caregiver
The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone, especially those with dementia and their care partners. In preparation for this season, Dr. Alexis Eastman joins Dementia Matters for our last episode of 2024. Drs. Chin and Eastman discuss strategies for managing the potential…
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Support for the Supporters: Resources for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
If you’re one of the 11 million Americans providing unpaid care to a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you know that caregiving is both incredibly rewarding and challenging. What makes caring for someone with dementia so emotionally and physically demanding, and what resources and…
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Let’s Talk: Navigating Family Conversations About Dementia Through Shared Decision-Making
Picture this: you are supporting someone experiencing memory changes as a clinician, support person or care partner while they go through the memory clinic process. How do you navigate the challenging conversations surrounding symptoms, diagnoses, care plans and more that come up? Dr. Toby…
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RAISE(ing) Support for Caregivers: State and National Resources for Family Care Partners
Dementia caregiving is a multifaceted domain, deeply influenced by research, strategy and personal experiences. How are these elements shaping the current and future landscape of care? Dr. Beth Fields joins the podcast to discuss strategies and resources for caregivers from both national, state and…
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Agitation and Alzheimer’s: Strategies for Managing Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
Many people living with dementia experience behavioral symptoms alongside changes in their cognition. What can care partners and healthcare providers do to manage these behavioral changes? After leading the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s (ADRC) annual Dr. Daniel I. Kaufer Lecture, Dr. Helen Kales…
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Difficult but Beneficial Conversations about End-of-Life Care
For families and dementia care partners, palliative care can help improve the quality of life for their loved ones and themselves by addressing physical and emotional needs. However, starting conversations around end-of-life care and planning can be difficult. Dr. Elizabeth Bukowy joins the podcast…
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Caregiving While Black: Dementia Care For Different Racial And Ethnic Groups
When seeking medical information and treatment, different racial and ethnic groups may require specially tailored information to relate to, understand and apply to their own experiences. In this episode, Dr. Fayron Epps joins the podcast to talk about the unique experiences of African American…
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Therapeutic Fibbing: Mastering the Art Of Communicating With A Loved One With Dementia
Former Governor of Wisconsin, Martin Schreiber, returns to Dementia Matters to discuss different methods for communicating with a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, including therapeutic fibbing. Governor Schreiber has been a widely outspoken advocate for Alzheimer’s disease while caring for his late wife Elaine,…
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‘Finding the Right Words’: Author Interview with Cindy Weinstein and Bruce Miller
American literature professor and author Cindy Weinstein and behavioral neurologist Bruce Miller join the podcast to discuss their latest book, Finding the Right Words: A Story of Literature, Grief, and the Brain, a dual-memoir that alternates between Weinstein’s memories of her father who experienced…
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Caregivers, Care Partners and People with Dementia: Brainstorming New Interventions for Dementia Care
When talking about dementia caregiving, researchers are often working toward new treatments and strategies for supporting people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. But how can we push the topic further and learn how we can better support dementia caregivers themselves? Dr. Eric Larson joins…
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Creative Care: The Power of Imagination in Dementia Caregiving
What would happen if caregiving strategies were inspired by wonder rather than memory? That’s what Dr. Anne Basting, founder and president of the nonprofit TimeSlips, asked when she began her research into how the arts could be integrated into dementia caregiving. Basting joins the…
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Managing Inappropriate Sexual Behavior in Alzheimer’s Disease
Inappropriate sexual behavior is a common yet rarely discussed symptom in individuals with dementia. Author Elizabeth Marcus writes about her personal experience with her father’s behavioral changes in her new book, Don’t Say a Word!: A Daughter’s Two Cents. Elizabeth shares what she learned…
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Being Patient Translates Alzheimer’s Disease Science for the General Public
Being Patient is an online news source dedicated to providing research news, caregiver information and resources related to Alzheimer’s disease. Being Patient founder Deborah Kan discusses how her personal experiences led her to develop the website, as well as how online resources and communities can…
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How Society Can Improve Care for People with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Dr. Jason Karlawish discusses society’s role in addressing care for individuals with memory loss, as well as current stigmas around Alzheimer’s disease, Wealthcare, and his cautious optimism for the future of Alzheimer’s disease research and care. This is the final episode in our four-part series with Dr. Karlawish on his new book,…
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The Powerful Benefits of Music on Memory Loss
Growing research has shown that music can have a profound impact on individuals with memory loss. Right to Music is an organization dedicated to promoting use of personal music by families and professionals caring for people with dementia and other cognitive challenges. Founder Dan…
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Emergency Care Tips for People with Dementia
Visiting the emergency department can be a challenging experience for individuals with memory loss and their caregivers. Dr. Manish Shah joins the podcast to discuss the difficulties people with dementia face in the emergency department and offers tips for making the most out of a visit. Guest: Manish Shah, MD, MPH,…
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Apps & Alzheimer’s: Supporting Informal Caregiving Through Mobile Technology
Human factors engineering is the study and design of interactive systems, tools and technologies to best assist individuals in need. We are joined by Nicole Werner, PhD, an engineer working on a mobile technology to serve the lives of informal caregivers. Guest: Nicole Werner,…
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Exploring the Lessons Learned as a New Caregiver
After serving as the primary caregiver for his wife for 11 years, Dr. Arthur Kleinman shares the unexpected experiences, difficulties and lessons that he faced. His book, The Soul of Care: The Moral Education of a Husband and a Doctor, chronicles the emotional and physical journey…
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Caregiver Coping Skills and Communication Strategies for a Pandemic
COVID-19 Special Series The pandemic has placed a significant strain on the mental, social, and physical wellbeing of many caregivers, as well as individuals with cognitive decline. Our guest discusses COVID-19’s impact on underserved communities, offers communication tips, and reminds people to practice self-care.…
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Long Distance Caregiving and Connecting: How to Remain in Close Contact with Your Loved Ones while Following Physical Distancing Recommendations
COVID-19 Special Series As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic visiting and communicating with people living with memory loss, whether at home or in a care facility, has become more difficult. Our guest joins us to outline the different ways to communicate remotely, how…
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A Glimpse Into the National Family Caregiver Support Program
COVID-19 Special Series The National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) offers information, support, and resources to assist family caregivers (spouse, adult child, other relative, friend or neighbor) with their concerns related to caregiving. COVID-19 has impacted many resources and supports. Funding is available to help. This…
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Considerations for Caregivers in Indian Country
Dr. J. Neil Henderson is an expert on diabetes and dementia, as well as creating culturally specific caregiver training programs for people who care for American Indian elders. Dr. Henderson, who is Oklahoma Choctaw, discusses cultural influences on caregiving and his work in improving…
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Palliative Care and Hospice Conversations for Dementia Patients, Families and Caregivers
A common concern for families and dementia caregivers is when to start talking about palliative care and hospice with and for their loved ones with dementia. Our guest, Dr. Kate Schueller, recommends these conversations happen soon after a diagnosis, when the dementia patient can…
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Simple Steps to Reduce Fall Risk among Older Adults
Falls are the leading injury related cause of emergency room visits, and people with dementia experience falls at about twice the rate of other older adults. But falls are not an inevitable part of aging, and balance and strength training have been proven to…
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Safety Tips for the Aging Driver
Dr. Chin talks with our guest about safety tips for aging drivers, caregiver considerations, and information on classes offered through AARP’s Driver Safety Program. Guest: Neil McCallum, Wisconsin State Coordinator of AARP’s Driver Safety Program
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Bank Supports Aging Customers with Dementia Friendly Training for Its Employees
Missteps with money management is an early warning sign of dementia, and aging customers are often targets of financial scams and abuse. This week’s guest spearheaded dementia friendly training across all branches of the bank she works for in hopes of supporting and protecting aging…
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Dementia Caregiver Turns Advocate for People with Alzheimer’s Disease
Former Badger Men’s Hockey announcer and “The Golf Affect Radio Show” host Paul Braun was a caregiver for his late wife, Karen, who had early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Paul’s experiences motivated him to become an advocate for people with Alzheimer’s disease and raise awareness and…
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Improving Care for an Aging Population through Innovative Nursing and Caregiver Programs
Dr. Barbara Bowers is an expert on improving care for older adults and people with dementia. Her work focuses on improving work life quality for formal caregivers, and developing tools to guide and support informal caregivers. Guest: Barbara Bowers, PhD, RN, University of Wisconsin-Madison…
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How to Live a Joyful Life after a Dementia Diagnosis
Our guest is Dr. Tia Powell, author of the new book Dementia Reimagined: Building a Life of Joy and Dignity from Beginning to End. Dr. Powell wants more people to live safe and happy after a diagnosis of dementia, and encourages them and their…
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Understanding Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
This week, we continue our conversation with Dr. Art Walaszek discussing the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). In this episode, he speaks about hallucinations and delusions and what caregivers can do to help. Guest: Dr. Art Walaszek, Geriatric Psychiatrist, University of Wisconsin…
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Identifying and Managing Mental Health Issues in Older Adults
Dr. Art Walaszek joins us for a two-part series discussing the mental health and behavioral changes family members and caregivers may see in people with dementia. In this first part, he delves into the relationship between depression and dementia, as well as tips and…
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Holiday Tips for Dementia Caregivers
The holidays are a joyous time for many, however it can be quite stressful to caregivers of a person with dementia. Geriatrician Dr. Alexis Eastman discusses the most important tips and safety precautions for dementia caregivers this holiday season. Guest: Dr. Alexis Eastman, Division…
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The Triumphs and Challenges of Being a Dementia Caretaker
This week, we have a very special episode featuring former Governor of Wisconsin, Martin Schreiber. Governor Schreiber has been a widely outspoken advocate for awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. He discusses the many beautiful and difficult moments of being a caregiver for his wife, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease…
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Finding Community Resources after a Dementia Diagnosis
The quest for both patient and caregiver resources in your own community can be difficult. Bonnie Nuttkinson of the Alzheimer’s Association tells us the many different free resources for dementia patients and their caregivers. Guest: Bonnie Nuttkinson, Program and Advocacy Manager, Alzheimer’s Association South…
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Caregiver Strategies and the Importance of Changing the Way We Think about Alzheimer’s
After more than 15 years of working with behavioral management strategies and symptoms associated with dementia, our guest has turned her focus to educating families and caregivers who are affected by this disease. She provides tips that every caregiver should know and sheds light on why it was…
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Identifying and Managing Dementia in the Hospital Setting
Research in dementia care has traditionally examined community and nursing home settings, leaving a gap in research on care for dementia patients during hospital stays. After identifying a need for improvement in caring for hospital patients with dementia, our guest developed a new approach…
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What It Takes to Become a Dementia Friendly Hospital
The William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, was recently recognized as the first Dementia Friendly VA hospital in the country. We hear from Dr. Mary Wyman and Margaret Flood on the importance of Dementia Friendly and what it takes to reach this…
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Support After Diagnosis: Dementia Care Specialists and Dementia Friendly Communities
After a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, patients and caregivers can turn to local agencies and associations for education and support. Dementia friendly communities represent an international movement to help businesses, the general public, and government agencies better recognize and support people…
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Caregiver Strategies for Overcoming Communication and Behavior Changes Due to Dementia
Dementia care specialist Teepa Snow discusses techniques caregivers and family members can use to better communicate with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients. Guest: Teepa Snow, dementia care specialist, educator, founder of Positive Approach, LLC
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When Is It Time for Home Healthcare?
Marion Chapin, an expert in homecare for seniors and people with dementia, will share five signs it is time to seek in-home help for caregiving for a family member. Marion has been working in homecare for more than 40 years, including time as a…