Listen Now

Dr. Lindsay Clark’s new study will evaluate the psychological consequences of disclosing amyloid test results to cognitively unimpaired adults. Dr. Clark joins the podcast to define amyloid accumulation and discuss how her study will examine the process of revealing amyloid results to research participants in Alzheimer’s disease research studies. Guest: Lindsay Clark, PhD, assistant professor, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Episode Topics: What is amyloid accumulation and its relationship to Alzheimer’s disease? 1:13 How are you measuring amyloid in living people? 3:14 Are newer methods like PET scans reliable? 5:56 Do patients learn the results of these scans? 6:20 Do research participants ever learn their results? 7:30 Who is the target population for studying amyloid scans? 8:44 Why does disclosing the results take so many careful considerations? 9:35 What do you think are the components of a good disclosure? 11:48 Are you disclosing specific numbers of the results? 14:16 Why does your study focus on amyloid PET scan results? 16:31 Do you believe the key concepts of disclosure can work with other biomarker studies? 18:33

In this special holiday bonus episode, we are joined by poet laureate, writer, and senior outreach specialist, Dr. Fabu Carter, to discuss the impact of poetry on memory loss and a reading of her poem “For Our Beloved Elders with Memory Loss." Guest: Fabu Carter, PhD, MA, Senior Outreach Specialist, University of Wisconsin of Medicine and Public Health   Episode Topics: What is the importance of poetry on Alzheimer’s Disease? 1:20 Reading of "For Our Beloved Elders with Memory Loss" 4:51

Recent developments have introduced a blood-based test that could predict Alzheimer’s disease, with more of these tests currently in development. Dr. Sterling Johnson joins the podcast to discuss the significance and accuracy of these blood tests, as well as the impact it will have on Alzheimer’s disease research and care. Guest: Sterling Johnson, PhD, professor of medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Episode Topics: What do biomarkers like brain imaging and cerebrospinal fluid tell us about Alzheimer’s disease? 1:18 What is the significance of a blood-based biomarker test? 6:08 What does the blood test tell us about brain health? 8:14 How accurate are the tests? 9:02 How are proteins like amyloid or tau found in the bloodstream? 10:28 What kind of precautionary steps should be taken before these tests can become readily available? 12:23 When do you think these tests will become available? 15:30 What do you think is the timeline for the tau protein blood tests? 16:26

A study from the University of Wisconsin found 40% of geriatric memory patients were deficient in at least one vitamin linked to brain health. Vitamins tested in this study included B1, B6, B12, and D, all of which play an important role in brain health. Dr. Robert Przybelski joins the podcast to discuss his study, the influence of vitamin deficiency on brain health, and the potential consequences of vitamin deficiency when treating a patient for a memory condition. Guest: Robert Przybelski, MD, associate professor, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Episode Topics: Why is it important to look for vitamin deficiencies during a memory evaluation? 1:19 What were your research findings? 2:03 What do you focus on during a memory evaluation? 5:13 Is there a difference between normal vitamin levels and optimal levels? 6:40 What supplements do you take? 7:42 What diet do you think promotes brain health? 8:06 Why does your research look at general patients rather than participants? 8:41

For individuals concerned with memory loss, the first few steps for screening and diagnosis can be the most intimidating. Dr. Cynthia Carlsson discusses recent progress in Alzheimer’s disease research, health disparities some groups face with the disease, and advice for individuals and caregivers who have concerns about memory loss. Guest: Cynthia Carlsson, MD, MS, professor, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, and director, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute  Episode Topics What is the current state of Alzheimer's disease research? 1:41 Is there more funding toward Alzheimer's disease research and care? 2:59 How has awareness of Alzheimer’s disease impacted diagnosis? 4:12 What are the health disparities we see in Alzheimer’s disease? 7:46 What are the benefits for early screening for Alzheimer’s disease? 11:07 How does an early diagnosis affect family members or caregivers?  13:36 Where should individuals concerned with memory loss look for resources? 15:06 Are there ramifications in research for early diagnosis? 16:08 What is your advice for individuals concerned with memory loss? 16:50

On October 27th, the NBC drama series This Is Us will return for a fifth season. An integral storyline in the show is the diagnosis of one of the main characters, Rebecca Pearson, with Mild Cognitive impairment (MCI). In this bonus episode, our host Dr. Chin helps define MCI and its potential causes and misconceptions. Episode Topics: What is Mild Cognitive Impairment? 1:37 Difference between MCI and Dementia: 3:29 Potential causes for MCI: 4:40

As intermittent fasting has risen in popularity over the last decade, researchers have been exploring its long-term effects on physical health. Dr. Mark Mattson joins to discuss his research on metabolic switching, caloric restrictions, and the cognitive benefits from intermittent fasting. Guest: Mark P. Mattson, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology Episode Topics: Defining Intermittent fasting: 1:08 How long does it take for a metabolic switch? 2:02 How is this process different from normal dietary recommendations? 3:44 What did you find in your research on the effects of intermittent fasting on health? 5:36 Are there cognitive benefits to intermittent fasting? 8:12 Can intermittent fasting and caloric restrictions improve the brain’s health? 9:49 How does our modern lifestyles affect our brain and overall health? 16:07 Is there any evidence that one way of intermittent fasting is better?17:54 Are there any long-term consequences of intermittent fasting? 20:30 What do you do in your life to improve your brain health? 22:39

Aerobic exercise is often a recommendation for maintaining cognitive well-being, however its true connections to brain health are still being investigated to learn its effects on Alzheimer’s disease. Wisconsin ADRC exercise physiologist and researcher Max Gaitán joins the podcast to discuss the recent pilot study “Protocol of Aerobic Exercise and Cognitive Health (REACH)” and the study’s future research into the impact of aerobic exercise on brain health. Guest: Max Gaitán, MEd, Research Specialist, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Department of Medicine Episode topics: What were the goals for the REACH study? 1:56 Was it difficult to recruit participants for the study? 3:18 What else did you learn from your participants?  4:22 Did you see any issues with retention in participants? 5:06 What were the results of the study? 5:42 What does improved glucose metabolism in the brain mean? 6:57 Does exercise improve the health of the brain cells? 7:43 What are the goals of studying metabolomics? 8:55  What did you define as usual physical activity? 9:47 How were the exercise targets chosen? 10:38 Are there studies researching high intensity interval training? 12:39  

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, PhD, Harvey D. Spangler Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison Episode topics: Explanation of the field of human factors engineering: 1:05 The challenges of informal caregiving: 2:22 What are some useful user friendly features for the app? 5:32 How is the app being tested and improved? 11:38 How do you know when the app will be ready for launch? 14:15 Does your lab work with other technology tools for individuals with dementia and their caregivers? 15:55 As consumers, what are the essential features that we should look for in technology assistance?: 18:10 Have you encountered any tools you’ve found helpful? 20:07 What have you learned about caregiving in your work? 22:55

Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease are women. In the Alzheimer’s disease research field, there is an interest in understanding the sex-specific differences in the risk and development of this disease. Dr. Michelle Mielke joins to discuss some of these differences as well as how pregnancy and menopause might affect cognition. Guest: Michelle Mielke, PhD, Mayo Clinic Rochester Episode Topics: What are the sex differences in the development of dementia? 4:09 What are explanations for these differences? 7:57 What role does pregnancy and menopause play in the development of cognitive disorders? 10:09  Could menopausal hormone replacement therapy affect the cognitive development of dementia in individuals? 14:32 Are there sex differences in the genetic risk of APOE? 21:30 What do you do in your personal life to maintain brain health? 24:31

A recent study from researchers at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health found that people who lived in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods were about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s disease-related brain changes at autopsy than people who lived in the wealthiest neighborhoods. One of the authors joins the podcast to discuss the research findings, the methodology behind the study, and future research directions. Guest: Ryan Powell, PhD, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Department of Medicine   Episode Topics: What are social determinants of health? 1:30 What is the Area Deprivation Index? 3:28 What did your study investigate? 7:24 What did you learn from your study of brain autopsy results? 8:49 How do you think social factors interact with brain changes? 11:10 Why is access to Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers important? 13:35 What is the next step for your research? 16:44 As a society, how can we slow the development of Alzheimer’s disease? 20:33

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 as a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Guest: Arthur Kleinman, MD, professor of medical anthropology and cross-cultural psychiatry, Harvard University   Episode Topics: Do you believe caregiving and empathy can be taught? 1:25 Unexpected experiences as a caregiver: 3:34 How do you communicate to your loved ones you need help with caregiving? 10:22 Differences between “illness” and “disease”: 20:38 Why is important for the community to welcome individuals with memory loss? 27:06

Research data collected from participants around the world has grown our understanding of genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Guest Jessica Langbaum, PhD, is the co-director of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, which conducts clinical trials in people at high risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. Langbaum discusses some recent findings in genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s disease, the psychological consequences of learning one’s risk, and testing interventions to delay or prevent the onset of symptoms. Guest: Jessica Langbaum, PhD, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute Episode Topics: What is the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative? 3:44 What is the difference between the APOE gene and the presenilin gene? 6:07 How are you approaching disclosure of genetic risk to participants? 12:15 What kind of responses have you received from participants who were told about their genetic risk? 15:32 What would you recommend to an individual interested in learning their genetic risk? 22:19 What are your recommendations for preventing dementia? 24:25 What is the GeneMatch program? 26:35  How can individuals find a study to volunteer for? 29:48 What is the most feasible form of therapy for dementia? 31:06

A recent study showed that research participants in the most highly disadvantaged neighborhoods had smaller hippocampal areas compared to research participants in more advantaged neighborhoods. The study’s first author explains the results and the tools researchers used to measure neighborhood disadvantage. Guest: Jack Hunt, PhD, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Medical Scientist Training Program Episode Topics: Association between neighborhood and brain structures: 1:52 Study findings: 4:01 Defining neighborhood disadvantage: 4:57 Who were the research participants involved in the study? 5:42 Why did you study the hippocampus in your research? 6:10 Related cardiovascular factors: 8:20 Using the Neighborhood Atlas to find neighborhood advantage by zip code: 10:22 Neighborhoods disadvantage and individual socioeconomic status: 13:17 Future research opportunities: 14:26 What can people in the community do with the results of this study? 17:36 Follow-up study: 18:23

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. Guest: Andrea Gilmore-Bykovskyi, PhD, RN, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing  Episode Topics:  Caregiver considerations for a pandemic. 2:31 Self Care for caregivers. 6:05 How the pandemic is affecting caregivers from underserved communities. 10:55 Recommendations for caregivers when planning a trip to a medical facility. 13:51 Advice for families trying to communicate with loved ones who are hospitalized. 15:36 Tips for communicating with loved ones in a care facility. 17:43 What caregivers should know for the future. 21:05  Show Notes: All of the important issues happening right now cannot be fully covered, so we strongly encourage you to go to trusted sources for specific information, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your state and local health department websites, and the Alzheimer's Association. You can also find resources on our website, and that of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute. For other interesting and important stories on the COVID-19 pandemic, I would recommend my colleague at UW Health Jonathan Kohler, MD, MA, of the Surgery Sett podcast who has a special series called The Frontlines of COVID.

COVID-19 Special Series Stress, fear, and anxiety are common responses to the uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with the regular practice of mindfulness, the meditative process of bringing your attention to your body in the present moment, has been seen to help calm the worry. Our guest joins us to discuss using mindfulness methods to maintain and mange an overall wellbeing. Guest: Vincent Minichiello, MD, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Episode Topics: How do you define mindfulness? 2:55 How does mindfulness affect our body? 5:15 Is it common to feel muscle relaxation while practicing mindfulness? 8:24 What are mindfulness-based interventions? 9:54   Can mindfulness be health focused? 13:36 Where do you see mindfulness fitting into healthcare, especially during the pandemic? 14:01 How can mindfulness be useful during the COVID-19 pandemic? 16:11 Can mindfulness be beneficial for individuals with cognitive impairments and caregivers? 18:21 Where should you begin with a mindfulness practice? 20:20 How helpful are online or phone apps for mindfulness practices? 22:50 What are you doing to maintain your wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic? 25:18 Show Notes: For listeners local to Madison, the UW Health Mindfulness Program offers in-person classes. They have also expanded to online classes due to the pandemic. Another great resource is The Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Apps our guest recommends are Mindfulness Coach, Calm, Buddhify and Headspace. A good starter book is Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn. All of the important issues happening right now cannot be fully covered, so we strongly encourage you to go to trusted sources for specific information, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your state and local health department websites, and the Alzheimer's Association. You can also find resources on our website, and that of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute. For other interesting and important stories on the COVID-19 pandemic, I would recommend my colleague at UW Health Jonathan Kohler, MD, MA, of the Surgery Sett podcast who has a special series called The Frontlines of COVID.

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 rural communities are adapting to this change and methods to help caregivers cope. Guest: Becky DeBuhr, MS, Program Director, Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin. Episode Topics: Ways for caregivers to connect with loved one:o    Technology 3:02o    Window visits 4:41o    Mail 6:00 What can families reasonably ask of professional caregiving staff? 9:22 How can family members communicate their support remotely? 12:45 How are caregivers in rural communities being affected? Is there a difference in urban communities? 15:09 Methods to help caregivers cope now and post-pandemic. 17:40 Key tips for caregivers at home or in a facility. 20:21 Show Notes: To learn more about the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin call 888-308-6251 or email support@alzwisc.org. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides guidance for all long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, and facilities serving people with developmental disabilities in Wisconsin caring for patients who are elderly and/or have chronic medical conditions that place them at higher risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19. All of the important issues happening right now cannot be fully covered, so we strongly encourage you to go to trusted sources for specific information, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your state and local health department websites, and the Alzheimer's Association. You can also find resources on our website, and that of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute. For other interesting and important stories on the COVID-19 pandemic, I would recommend my colleague at UW Health Jonathan Kohler, MD, MA, of the Surgery Sett podcast who has a special series called The Frontlines of COVID.

COVID-19 Special Series The field of telemedicine offers a diverse range of medical support services through telecommunication. Under the global pandemic, many providers have moved to telemedicine to assist their patients. Our guest discusses the advantages and disadvantages to using video and phone doctor visits and offers tips for best use of the services. Guest: Steve Barczi, MD, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Episode Topics: What is telemedicine? 3:25 Benefits of telemedicine 8:04 Downside of telemedicine? 11:05 Is telemedicine covered by insurance? 13:30   How has COVID-19 changed the utilization of telemedicine? 18:27 Key takeaways 24:20 Telemedicine tips for people with cognitive impairments and older adults 25:05 How to prepare for a telemedicine visit 28:14 Best practices for a telemedicine visit 30:45 Show Notes: All of the important issues happening right now cannot be fully covered, so we strongly encourage you to go to trusted sources for specific information, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your state and local health department websites, and the Alzheimer's Association. You can also find resources on our website, and that of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute. For other interesting and important stories on the COVID-19 pandemic, I would recommend my colleague at UW Health Jonathan Kohler, MD, MA, of the Surgery Sett podcast who has a special series called The Frontlines of COVID.

COVID-19 Special Series This episode discusses the work done by The Alzheimer’s Association, an organization focused on providing community education and assistance to all affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Our guest details how care and support services have quickly adapted to keep families and loved ones safe, healthy, and connected under quarantine. Guest: Kate Kahles, Program Manager, Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter Episode Topics: How have support groups changed under the pandemic? 2:53 Alzheimer’s Association Helpline 5:50 Types of support groups 7:15 Advice for coping with the anxiety from having a loved one in a facility 9:00 Outreach to rural communities 12:28  How has the stay-at-home order affected caregivers? 13:49 Activities for caregivers and persons living with dementia 16:59 Advance care planning 19:24 Key services 20:14 Show Notes: To learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and support services near you go to the Community Resource Finder or call the helpline at 1(800)272-3900. All of the important issues happening right now cannot be fully covered, so we strongly encourage you to go to trusted sources for specific information, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your state and local health department websites. You can also find resources on our website, and that of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute. For other interesting and important stories on the COVID-19 pandemic, I would recommend my colleague at UW Health Jonathan Kohler, MD, MA, of the Surgery Sett podcast who has a special series called The Frontlines of COVID.  

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 episode delves into what the program offers and ways to support caregivers and care recipients especially during the pandemic Guest: Jane DeBroux, Caregiver Program Coordinator, Dane County Area Agency on Aging Episode Topics: What is the National Family Caregiver Support Program? 2:55  How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the program? 4:02 What does the program offer? 4:43 What are the eligibility requirements? 10:20 Show Notes: To learn more about the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) program in your county reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging or Aging & Disability Resource Center. If in Dane County, Wisconsin, contact Jane DeBroux at (608) 261-5679. For all other Wisconsin counties go to wisconsincaregiver.org. All of the important issues happening right now cannot be fully covered, so we strongly encourage you to go to trusted sources for specific information, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your state and local health department websites, and the Alzheimer's Association. You can also find resources on our website, and that of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute. For other interesting and important stories on the COVID-19 pandemic, I would recommend my colleague at UW Health Jonathan Kohler, MD, MA, of the Surgery Sett podcast who has a special series called The Frontlines of COVID.