Spotlight on Care: Alzheimer's Caregiving UCI MIND

Virginia and Steve are joined by Nathaniel Chin, MD, a geriatrician, associate professor at the University of Wisconsin Department of Medicine, Medical Director of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, and host and creator of the popular Dementia Matters podcast.  Dr. Chin recounts how his father's Alzheimer's diagnosis and dementia journey inspired his career choice.  He discusses the importance of getting an early diagnosis, keeping records, and the critical role that caregivers play in the diagnosis and treatment of people with cognitive impairments.  Dr. Chin also describes his involvement in dementia research at the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention.  To learn more about the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and Dr. Chin’s podcast visit: https://www.adrc.wisc.edu/dementia-matters

Steve and Virginia sit down with Ahmad Sajjadi, MD, PhD, associate professor of Neurology at UC Irvine and research clinician at UCI MIND, to discuss some of the recent advances that have been made in Alzheimer’s disease research and care. He discusses the newly approved drugs, diagnostic tests and coverage of some of those tests, and care navigator programs. 

Virginia and Steve speak with Dr. Galindo, who cared for her father with Alzheimer's disease and helps the listeners understand the importance of simplifying the holidays to maximize enjoyment for everyone.  She gives tips on focusing on one or two traditions and recruiting help  instead of trying to balance caregiving with all of the pressures of maintaining family traditions.  For more caregiver resources  at the holidays and throughout the year visit www.alzoc.org or call the helpline at 844-373-4400. Happy Holidays! 

Steve and Virginia are joined by Dr. Michelle McDonnell, a neuropsychologist at UCI MIND, who discusses the importance of cognitive testing. She discusses the process involved in the testing, tips to encourage your loved one to participate, and the benefits of tracking Alzheimers as it progresses. 

Susan Papiri, Community Relations Director for Dignity Memorial. She discusses involving loved ones earlier regarding their wishes, preferences and religious traditions. These conversations can give honor to their legacy and reduce family stress.

If you are in the Orange County/San Diego area and wish to learn more about services offered, you can call their toll-free number at (949)-622-7171

Steve and Virginia are joined by Elizabeth Lonseth, an author and caregiver, who discusses the dangers of denial in Alzheimer’s caregiving. She touches on the many ways that both patients and caregivers can suffer when caregivers do not come to terms with the realities of the disease.  Elizabeth also gives listeners a few tips to help improve the caregiver journey.

To learn more about Elizabeth visit https://elizabethlonsethnovels.com/