Episode 16: When to Let the Cat Out of the Bag

Episode 20 Dignity and Alzheimer's

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2489345/fan_mail/new] "Words From the Horse's Mouth" What does dignity really feel like for someone living with Alzheimer’s? In this episode, Janna and Larry share real-life moments where dignity can either be preserved—or unintentionally taken away. From being interrupted or rushed, to the power of eye contact and inclusion, this conversation offers practical, compassionate ways to protect the person behind the disease. In this deeply personal and practical episode, we explore how dignity is not something Alzheimer’s can take—it’s something that must be actively protected. As memory fades and communication becomes more difficult, the way we respond becomes everything. This episode walks through real-life situations where dignity can quietly slip away—and how small shifts in language, tone, and approach can restore it. Whether you're a spouse, family member, or support person, or you yourself have the disease, you’ll come away with a clearer understanding of how to go beyond just managing situation. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Dignity is inherent and not dependent on memory • Small habits like interrupting can reduce dignity • Eye contact and acknowledgment restore connection • Inclusion in tasks builds purpose • People with Alzheimer’s are still aware RESOURCES Alzheimer’s Association – Communication Tips [https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications] Teepa Snow [https://teepasnow.com/] UCLA Dementia Care [https://www.uclahealth.org/programs/dementia] National Institute on Aging [https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers] Family Caregiver Alliance [https://www.caregiver.org/] Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org [https://www.alzheimersthriver.org] to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Episode 19 Acceptance and Adjustments

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2489345/fan_mail/new] EPISODE 19 SHOW NOTES “Acceptance & Adjustments” Living with Alzheimer’s means facing changes you didn’t choose — and figuring out how to keep living well anyway. In this episode, Janna and Larry talk honestly (and with humor) about what it feels like to accept what’s changing and how small adjustments can make daily life calmer, safer, and more joyful. They explore how things like recognizing faces, finding words, moving through the house, or staying engaged can require new strategies — and how companionship, music, routine, and creativity can make a big difference without taking away dignity. If you’re living with Alzheimer’s, loving someone with it, or both, this episode offers a realistic but hopeful look at how acceptance and adaptation can protect the things that matter most. You’ll hear about: ·       what acceptance feels like from the inside ·       why adjustments aren’t surrender — they’re tools ·       how companionship and support help keep purpose alive ·       the surprising value of music, reading, and humor ·       and what it means to “decide to thrive” even as the brain changes   Helpful Resources  Alzheimer’s Association — “I Have Alzheimer’s: Resources for Support” [https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/live-well/tips-for-daily-life] This main page is written for people living with Alzheimer’s. It gathers simple, practical information on what to expect, how to live well, and where to find support without drowning you in medical language.    Alzheimer’s Association — Tips for Daily Life [https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/live-well/tips-for-daily-life] Offers down-to-earth ideas to make everyday life a bit easier when you’re living with memory and thinking changes — things you can try at home, at your own pace.    Alzheimer’s Association — Taking Care of Yourself [https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/live-well/taking-care-of-yourself] Focuses on the person with Alzheimer’s: your health, stress, rest, and emotional well-being, with suggestions for staying as strong and independent as possible. Alzheimer’s Society (UK) — Coping with Memory Loss [https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/living-with-dementia/coping-with-memory-loss] A friendly guide for people who are noticing memory problems, with practical ideas for routines, organizing things at home, and handling the feelings that come with it. Forward With Dementia — Getting Support & Adjusting to a Diagnosis [https://www.forwardwithdementia.org/en/news/project_tag/plwd/] Written in plain language for people with dementia, this page talks about the emotional side of getting the diagnosis and how support, counseling, and peer groups can help you adjust.   “Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up — it means making room for what’s still possible.” Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org [https://www.alzheimersthriver.org] to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Episode 18: New Developments as Time Goes By

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2489345/fan_mail/new] Alzheimer’s Thriver™  In this episode, Janna and Larry share recent changes in their Alzheimer’s journey — from slower mornings and occasional disorientation to accepting help with more peace and humor. They discuss how companionship, gentle support, post-surgery recovery, and small daily moments (like seeing children or laughing together) all shape their ongoing commitment to thrive rather than feel defeated. The episode encourages both patients and care partners to embrace patience, teamwork, and gratitude as the condition progresses. *       Mornings now take longer, and Janna uses calm self-encouragement to get oriented. *       Accepting help has become easier and strengthens their partnership.       Companions are now helping with flute practice — and learning flute themselves. *       A recent surgery and medications temporarily affected mobility and cognition. *       Palliative care is being introduced for additional support.       Humor, shared routines, and noticing small joys help them continue thriving. Helpful References & Studies 1.     Sleep problems & morning confusion – NIA ⁠https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sleep/managing-sleep-problems-alzheimers-disease⁠ [https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sleep/managing-sleep-problems-alzheimers-disease?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 2.     Companionship & meaningful activities – Alzheimer’s Society ⁠https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/activities-dementia⁠ [https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/activities-dementia] 3.     Dementia risk after surgery (peer-reviewed, Lancet EClinicalMedicine)⁠https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370%2822%2900457-6/fulltext [https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370%2822%2900457-6/fulltext?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 4.     Sleep & behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s – Alzheimer’s Association ⁠https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/for-sleep-changes⁠ [https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/for-sleep-changes?utm_source=chatgpt.com]  5.     Hospice & palliative care – NIA ⁠https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hospice-and-palliative-care [https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hospice-and-palliative-care?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org [https://www.alzheimersthriver.org] to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

17 Embracing Inspiration and Optimism

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2489345/fan_mail/new] “Each New Day, A New Page: Embracing Optimism While Living with Alzheimer’s” 📝 Show Notes for Episode 17: Embracing Inspiration and Optimism In this heartfelt episode, Janna, an Alzheimer's thriver, and her husband Larry share an intimate anniversary conversation that turns into something truly profound. Through reflections on memory, environment, and emotional overwhelm, Janna reveals a powerful epiphany she received in a dream: that each new day is a page in the continuing story of her life. No longer focused on what she has lost, Janna is choosing to embrace what she still can do—with joy, humor, and clarity. The episode touches on: - How sound and sensory overload affect Alzheimer's communication - A breakthrough with nighttime muscle cramps (thanks to a new salt supplement!) - The creative process of reframing daily life as an evolving story - The difference between passive acceptance and active embracing of one’s reality - Living with intention, purpose, and spiritual awareness in Alzheimer’s This episode is a celebration of resilience, love, and the human spirit’s ability to reframe challenge into creativity.   🔗 Resources & Related Studies - Sense of Purpose & Lower Dementia Risk – NIH/PMC [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8887819/]:  - Purpose and Brain Health – Rush University [https://www.rush.edu/news/purpose-life-may-help-aging-brain]:  - Fewer Behavioral Symptoms with Greater Life Purpose – Taylor & Francis [https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13607863.2021.1937055]:  - Positive Psychology in Cognitive Decline [https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/10/3/476] - Narrative Identity & Life Story Tools – Springer [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12115-017-0135-1]: - Reminiscence Therapy in Dementia – PMC Review [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6542096/]:  - Daily Meaningful Activities for Alzheimer’s – Dementia UK [https://www.dementiauk.org/about-dementia/living-well-with-dementia/meaningful-activities/]:  - Art & Identity – “I Remember Better When I Paint” Documentary: https://www.irememberbetterwhenipaint.com/ [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6542096/] 🌐 Visit Us For more stories and ways to stay connected, visit: https://www.alzheimersthriver.org [https://www.alzheimersthriver.org/] Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org [https://www.alzheimersthriver.org] to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Episode 16: When to Let the Cat Out of the Bag

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2489345/fan_mail/new] “Afraid to Share the Diagnosis? How Janna Told Her Family and Took Back Her Voice”    Not sure when or how to tell loved ones about an Alzheimer’s diagnosis? You’re not alone. The early stage is often filled with confusion, self-doubt, and fear of being treated differently. But hiding it only makes things harder. In this powerful episode, Janna shares how she broke the news to her sons and grandkids, and the surprising freedom that came with naming the diagnosis out loud. You’ll also hear the simple communication shift that helps her stay present and engaged in fast-paced conversations, even with memory challenges.    You’ll discover:  * Why telling others isn’t just about informing ...it’s about reclaiming power.      What to consider before speaking with children or grandchildren  * The gentle language Janna uses when she doesn’t want to say “Alzheimer’s”  * A unique “echoing” technique that keeps her focused during conversations  * How to advocate for your needs without shame or apology  If you or someone you love is wrestling with how much to say—and when—this episode offers real-life wisdom from someone walking the journey with courage, humor, and grace.  1. European Geriatric Medicine (2021)  “Family members’ attitudes towards telling the patient with Alzheimer’s disease their diagnosis: a 20year repeat study”  * In Ireland, family members surveyed in 2021 were over 4× more likely to favor disclosing the diagnosis compared to two decades earlier Mayo Clinic Press+4SpringerLink+4PubMed+4 [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41999-021-00464-w?utm_source=chatgpt.com].  * The shift reflects broader recognition of patient autonomy, with disclosing seen as facilitating proactive planning rather than evoking negative reactions SpringerLink [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41999-021-00464-w?utm_source=chatgpt.com].    2. Physicians Postgraduate Press (2019)  “Disclosure of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Patient and Care PartnerCentric DecisionMaking and Communication”  * This evidence-based consensus emphasizes that early and timely disclosure, paired with psychoeducation and care planning, improves quality of life, allows shared decision-making, and reduces harm by enabling earlier intervention PubMed [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30900850/?utm_source=chatgpt.com].    3. Alzheimer’s & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions (2024)  “Personal value of Alzheimer’s disease biomarker testing and result disclosure from the patient and care partner perspective”  * Disclosure of biomarker results (e.g. CSF/amyloid tests) provided diagnostic clarity, reduced anxiety, and motivated lifestyle changes and future planning, both for patients and care partners Verywell Health+12Alzheimer's Journals+12PubMed+12 [https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/trc2.12463?utm_source=chatgpt.com].  * Some noted that patients hesitated to share to avoid burdening others, but families often appreciated the information and wanted to support planning PMC+3Alzheimer's Journals+3PMC+3 [https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/trc2.12463?utm_source=chatgpt.com].  Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org [https://www.alzheimersthriver.org] to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.