BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's: Recent Episodes
Meryl Comer, UsAgainstAlzheimer's
BrainStorm, a free podcast series by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, features conversations with doctors, researchers, authors and luminaries, people living with dementia and their caregivers. We’ll delve into what matters most to you about your brain and ask questions about keeping your memory sharp and maintaining optimal brain health. Learn about the latest in the science of longevity, Alzheimer’s and cognitive disease research. We’ll look at disparities in diseases, and equity and access for all. New episodes, hosted by Meryl Comer, are available first and third Tuesdays of every month. Join Us!
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In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer leads part 2 in a series on UsAgainstAlzheimer's newly released Brain Health Journey resources. The discussion with Dr. Diana Summanwar, a practicing family physician and implementation scientist, and Chris Miller, project manager for UsAgainstAlzheimer's Brain Health Journey, centers on the challenges facing primary care physicians in detecting and diagnosing Alzheimer's disease early.
Chris Miller describes the core problem: there is no clear pathway for patients or care partners to navigate brain health concerns, and primary care physicians are often under-resourced to detect mild cognitive impairment, while specialists face overwhelming wait times of up to a year. Dr. Summanwar speaks to the realities of physician burnout and the growing demands placed on primary care. The conversation explores how a new suite of tools aims to bridge the gap between patient concern and accurate Alzheimer's diagnosis.
The episode touches on practical tips for families preparing for a doctor's appointment and the complexity of mixed dementias. This episode is for anyone concerned about their brain health, or the brain health of a loved on.
Brain Health Journey resources are available at mybrainguide.org/journey.
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Endocrinologist and longevity expert Dr. Florence Comite joins Meryl Comer to challenge conventional wisdom about aging, hormones, and brain health. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and her new book Invincible, Dr. Comite explains why the fear around hormone therapy is based on outdated, flawed research. She believes testosterone, progesterone, quality sleep, and resistance training can meaningfully improve brain function at any age, even into your 90s. Dr. Comite also stresses that "normal range" lab results can be misleading, and that individualized, detail-oriented care outperforms one-size-fits-all evidence-based medicine. You don’t want to miss this candid, detail-driven conversation about taking control of your own aging process.
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What if the way we think about aging and dementia is fundamentally wrong? Dr. Florence Comite, precision medicine pioneer and author of Invincible: Defy Your Genetic Destiny to Live Better Longer, joins host Meryl Comer to make the case that cognitive decline is not inevitable. From the difference between biological and chronological age, to the five key biomarkers everyone should know, Dr. Comite offers a science-backed roadmap for protecting your brain and body decades before crisis hits. They discuss the role of hormones in cognitive function, and why dementia risk must be addressed in midlife. Dr. Comite advocates for precision medicine, wearable technology, and personalized lifestyle interventions as tools to delay the point where aging becomes disease. If dementia or cognitive decline is a concern, this conversation is one you can't afford to miss.
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In part two of Meryl Comer’s conversation with Dr. Nathaniel Chin — geriatrician, researcher, and author of When Memory Fades — they explore the practical and emotional realities of life after an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Drawing on both his clinical expertise and personal experience of caring for his father, Dr. Chin addresses the often-overlooked needs of care partners, the importance of acting quickly on legal and financial planning after diagnosis, and why lifestyle interventions matter even before seeing a specialist. The conversation also touches on the complexity of mixed dementia diagnoses, the stigma patients face, behavioral symptoms that families should anticipate, and how pre-existing relationship dynamics don't disappear; they intensify. Dr. Chin closes with an overview of the Clarity study, a national research initiative seeking participants to better understand multiple brain disease processes simultaneously. You won’t want to miss this informative and personal interview!
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What if knowing sooner could change everything? In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer sits down with Dr. Nathaniel Chin — geriatrician, Alzheimer's researcher, and author of When Memory Fades: What to Expect at Every Stage, from Early Signs to Full Support for Alzheimer's and Dementia, to explore why early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and dementia is more empowering than it is frightening.
Dr. Chin opens up about the fear, stigma, and denial that keep patients and families from seeking answers, and why those hesitations have a real cost. Drawing on his own experience watching his father's cognitive decline, he walks through the subtle early signs of memory change, the difference between normal aging and something more serious, and how new biomarker tests are reshaping the diagnostic conversation.
From navigating family denial to balancing hope, Dr. Chin offers a rare combination of clinical expertise and deeply personal insight of the journey. He reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a family with their thoughts on what matters most.
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In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimers, host Meryl Comer continues her conversation with Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, Founder and Chief Director of the Center for Brain Health at UT Dallas, about how to build a more resilient brain in the face of modern life's relentless stressors. Dr. Chapman breaks down the difference between acute and chronic stress, explains why accepting cognitive decline is a myth, and challenges the popular belief that brain games are an effective prevention strategy. She shares practical, science-backed techniques — from possibility thinking and single-tasking to strategic rest and reframing stress — that can meaningfully strengthen the brain at any age. The conversation also touches on retirement as a critical risk period for cognitive decline and the remarkable findings of brain gains even years into a dedicated brain health practice. Whether you're 30 or 80, this episode makes the case that your brain is dynamic, trainable, and worth investing in — starting today.
Produced by Susan Quirk
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What if you could train your brain to outperform the very biomarkers that signal Alzheimer's risk? In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s host Meryl Comer sits down with Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, founder of the Center for Brain Health at UT Dallas, to explore the groundbreaking science behind the Brain Health Project — a landmark study tracking over 40,000 people across 65 countries. Dr. Chapman reveals why our peak brain years don't have to stall at 30 and how people in their 70s are showing cognitive gains equal to those in their 20s. Together they delve into the three pillars of brain health - clarity, connectedness, and calm – and their relevance for your daily life. Dr. Chapman and Ms. Comer also dig into the gender differences in cognitive resilience, the promise and pitfalls of AI on brain development, and the real impact of hormonal changes on women's cognition. Whether you're a peak performer or just starting to notice mental slowdowns, this conversation makes the case that it's never too early — or too late — to invest in your brain.
Produced by Susan Quirk
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In part one of a series on UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Brain Health Journey host Meryl Comer is joined by Nancy Meserve, a lived experience advisor and APOE4 double-carrier, and Catherine Patterson, interim COO of UsAgainstAlzheimer's. Their conversation explores the newly launched Brain Health Journey — a suite of resources designed to help people at elevated Alzheimer's risk, those living with the disease, and their care partners navigate the road from concern to diagnosis.
You can find the Brain Health Journey at MyBrainGuide.org.
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Host Meryl Comer continues her conversation with Dr. Jason Karlawish, professor of medicine, medical ethics, and neurology at the University of Pennsylvania, about the evolving landscape of Alzheimer's disease. Drawing on his book The Problem with Alzheimer's, Dr. Karlawish explores the promise of early detection, the ethical complexities of disclosing uncertain diagnoses, and why he remains skeptical that an outright cure is on the near horizon — famously comparing it to planning retirement with a lottery ticket.
The conversation moves into the deeply human side of the disease, touching on caregiving as a form of "mind support," the role families play in both enabling and delaying diagnosis, and the exciting potential of smartphones and smart home technologies to transform care. Dr. Karlawish shares a candid reflection on what gives him hope and what keeps him up at night. This episode is a thoughtful, unflinching look at a disease that is best understood as a "complex tragedy."
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What happens when your carefully mapped career path collides with an Alzheimer's diagnosis — and you're only 26? In this deeply personal episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, host Meryl Comer sits down with Jessica Guthrie, founder of the online platform Career and Caregiving Collide, whose life changed forever when her mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's in 2014.
Jessica shares what it means to be a young Black professional thrust into the role of long-distance caregiver — navigating a healthcare system that often didn't listen, workplaces that weren't designed with caregivers in mind, and support spaces where she was frequently the youngest and only Black person in the room. Rather than suffering in silence, she turned her experience into a growing online community where caregivers across generations find connection, validation, and practical wisdom.
Meryl and Jessica unpack the hidden barriers facing Black families seeking an Alzheimer's diagnosis, the toll caregiving takes on career ambitions and financial security, and why the people who show up at diagnosis often disappear years down the road.
This is conversation for anyone who has ever had to choose between their dreams and their family.
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Alzheimer's disease is no longer just a memory problem — it's a biological, cultural, and ethical challenge reshaping how we think about aging, identity, and medicine. In this episode of Brainstorm by UsAgainstAlzheimers, host Meryl Comer sits down with Dr. Jason Karlawish, professor of medicine, medical ethics, health policy, and neurology at the University of Pennsylvania. They explore how Alzheimer's evolved from a rare condition into a full-blown public health crisis. Dr. Karlawish unpacks the science behind biomarker testing and early detection, the promise and complexity of new anti-amyloid treatments, and why so many physicians remain reluctant to diagnose cognitive decline at all. From health equity gaps that leave Latino and African American patients chronically underserved, to the ethical weight of disclosing an Alzheimer's diagnosis to someone still in the middle of their career, Dr. Karlawish brings both scientific precision and moral seriousness to one of medicine's most urgent conversations. It's a candid, wide-ranging discussion about what it truly means to confront a disease that strikes at the heart of who we are. You don’t want to miss this episode!
Produced by Susan Quirk
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In honor of Black History Month, this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s explores the critical intersection of Alzheimer's disease and health equity in African-American communities. Host Meryl Comer talks with Daphne Delgado, Vice President for Health Equity at UsAgainstAlzheimer's, and Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown, a clinical nursing professor and 2022 Brain Health Equity Nurse Fellowship graduate. They discuss the stark disparities facing Black Americans—who are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's yet 35% less likely to receive timely diagnosis. Dr. Whitaker-Brown shares her powerful journey from experienced nurse to full-time caregiver, and how the fellowship transformed her ability to serve her community through culturally tailored outreach in churches, workshops, and community centers. The conversation emphasizes the vital role nurses play as trusted frontline educators in promoting brain health, addressing stigma, and connecting families to essential resources. This is a must listen episode!
Produced by Susan Quirk
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This episode of BrainStorm, by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, features host Meryl Comer interviewing Leah Fisher, a psychotherapist and author who took a bold year-long solo travel sabbatical at age 60 to explore different cultures while maintaining her marriage. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Fisher reveals that after the events in her book, she received an MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) diagnosis with elevated Alzheimer's risk. She candidly shares her journey of recognizing early symptoms like misplacing car keys and developing aphasia, the validation that came with diagnosis, and her current experience living with uncertainty about disease progression. Fisher offers insights on how couples cope with health diagnoses, the importance of curiosity over avoidance, and her desire to be treated with patience, kindness, and continued love as she faces an uncertain future. This conversation is essential listening for family members, caregivers, and anyone navigating aging and brain health.
Produced by Susan Quirk
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BrainStorm guest Vradenburg, Chairman and Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer's, sits down with host Meryl Comer for a comprehensive look at the state of Alzheimer's research, advocacy, and care in 2025.
Vradenburg addresses critical challenges facing the Alzheimer's community, including threats to NIH funding and the impact of funding instability on researchers and clinical trials. The discussion covers key advocacy efforts like the CHANGE Act and ASAP Act, which aim to make cognitive checkups and blood-based diagnostic tests more accessible through Medicare coverage. Vradenburg also highlights UsAgainstAlzheimer's expanding initiatives, from the BrainGuide platform offering direct-to-consumer cognitive assessments to educational programs training healthcare professionals on brain health.
Looking forward, Vradenburg makes a bold prediction: within the next decade, we could see preventive treatments for Alzheimer's, potentially including a vaccine. This episode offers both a candid assessment of current challenges and an optimistic vision for the future of Alzheimer's prevention and treatment. This is a must listen episode!
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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Ep 99: The Future of Alzheimer's Trials: AI, Biomarkers, and Remote Research – John Dwyer, CEO of The Global Alzheimer’s Platform
In part 2 John Dwyer, CEO of the Global Alzheimer's Platform (GAP), and BrainStorm host Meryl Comer discuss transforming Alzheimer's research and clinical trials. Dwyer shares how the field is shifting toward earlier intervention and leveraging artificial intelligence to improve trial efficiency and accuracy. AI can help identify subtle disease patterns and ensure trials enroll appropriate candidates. GAP is also pioneering remote, decentralized trials that bring research into patients' homes rather than requiring frequent clinic visits, aiming to dramatically scale up participation.
Dwyer also highlights proven lifestyle interventions that support cognitive health alongside pharmaceutical treatments and suggests multiple treatment approaches may soon be available.
This episode of BrainStorm is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson
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The quest to speed up clinical trials is personal for John Dwyer, CEO of the Global Alzheimer's Platform (GAP). A long-time UsA2 advocate, he’s been motivated by the generations of family members lost to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Dwyer shares with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer the critical challenges of NIH funding cuts by the Trump Administration, forcing many trial sites to shut down at a time of new FDA-cleared blood tests for early diagnosis. Dwyer highlights GAP's innovations in improving the participant experience through streamlining visits, personalized feedback, and bringing mobile trials directly to small communities. This must listen episode reinforces clinical trial participation as a valuable care option while advancing research for millions affected by Alzheimer's and related dementias.
This episode of BrainStorm is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson
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Diane Rehm, the legendary 89-year-old NPR talk show host, discusses her passionate advocacy for medical aid in dying with BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer. Rehm’s view was shaped by her husband John's difficult death from Parkinson's disease and the experience transformed her into a fierce advocate for end-of-life autonomy. She's adamant that if diagnosed with serious illness or early signs of Alzheimer's, she would travel to Switzerland rather than undergo treatment or lose her cognitive capacity, declaring that legislators have "no right to control my decision as to when I die."
Despite confronting these weighty topics, Diane exemplifies what researchers call a "superager"—maintaining remarkable physical and cognitive health through decades of Pilates, a disciplined diet, active social engagement, and continued work. She also reflects on her storied broadcasting career, lamenting how modern media has become siloed and less committed to presenting multiple perspectives, while emphasizing her core philosophy that "a talk show should really be called a listening show"—valuing ordinary people's voices as much as those of distinguished leaders.
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Dr. Rachel Buckley discusses the critical link between menopause and Alzheimer's risk in women with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Dr. Buckley explains that early menopause can be associated with faster cognitive decline and higher tau levels in the brain. She emphasizes the importance of timing for hormone replacement therapy and how estrogen plays a vital role in brain health through receptors that regulate communication between brain regions and mood. Dr. Buckley advocates for proactive conversations with doctors starting at age 40, midlife cognitive checkups around age 55, and better sex-specific reporting in clinical trials, noting that recent Alzheimer's treatments showed dramatically different results in men (42% benefit) versus women (12% benefit). As leader of a Welcome LEAP research team, she's working to cut women's lifetime Alzheimer's risk in half within three years, representing a new wave of prevention-focused research that coincides with the critical menopause transition period. This is a must listen episode!
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Dr. Rachel Buckley of Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School discusses groundbreaking research revealing stark sex differences in Alzheimer's disease with BrainStorm host Meryl Comer. Her studies found that while men and women show similar levels of amyloid protein, women consistently display significantly higher levels of tau. This discovery has sparked a $50 million Welcome Leap Care grant aimed at cutting Alzheimer's lifetime risk among women by half.
The episode clarifies widespread confusion about hormone replacement therapy, explaining that the problematic Women's Health Initiative study used outdated hormone formulations on women over 65—far past the optimal window for intervention. Dr. Buckley emphasizes that current evidence supports HRT use within certain parameters and stresses the importance of women advocating for themselves when experiencing perimenopause symptoms like brain fog and sleep disturbances. The research highlights menopause as a critical period that may influence Alzheimer's risk decades later.
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In this deeply moving episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, Emma Heming Willis shares her intimate journey as a caregiver to her husband Bruce Willis, who lives with frontotemporal dementia. Their conversation covers the progression from early warning signs to diagnosis and the complex decisions required in caregiving - including the heartbreaking but necessary choice to have Bruce live separately to better serve both his needs and their children's wellbeing.
Emma's candid discussion about reframing expectations, finding permission to ask for help, and discovering unexpected beauty amid profound loss offers hope and practical guidance for other caregivers. Her transformation of personal tragedy into advocacy through her book "The Unexpected Journey"demonstrates how caregivers can find purpose and meaning while navigating one of life's most challenging experiences. You don’t want to miss this episode!
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Dr. Jonathan Rosand, co-founder of the McCance Center for Brain Health at Harvard discusses his revolutionary approach to preventing brain diseases before they start with host Meryl Comer. Dr. Rosand explains how his work originated from his experience treating severe brain injuries, where he witnessed patients and their families developing depression, anxiety, and PTSD after surviving critical care. This led him to ultimately developing the "Brain Care Score" - a tool that measures 12 daily lifestyle choices that can substantially reduce the risk of dementia, stroke, and depression. The Brain Care Score gives individuals agency over their brain health, emphasizing that prevention is about daily choices rather than complex medical interventions.
Learn more about the Brain Care Score at the McCance Center for Brain Health.
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Dr. Carolyn Clevenger, Founder and Director of Emory's innovative Integrated Memory Care Clinic continues to explore the complex realities of Alzheimer's caregiving with host Meryl Comer. Dr. Clevenger shares her expertise on recognizing when families need additional support, managing behavioral symptoms without over-medication, and ensuring families remain central to care decisions even in residential settings. The conversation covers the often-overlooked medical causes of agitation and how to navigate the challenging transition to memory care facilities while maintaining control over your loved one's treatment. This episode offers both professional insights and compassionate guidance for families facing difficult decisions in their caregiving journey.
Sponsored by Lundbeck US
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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In this episode of BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's, host Meryl Comer explores the critical issue of agitation in dementia care with Dr. Carolyn Clevenger, Founder and Director of Emory's Integrated Memory Care Clinic. Dr. Clevenger provides practical advice for caregivers, emphasizing that documentation of behaviors and triggers is crucial, and that caregivers must learn to adapt. Her innovative approach to dementia care through integrated memory care which provides primary care, dementia specialist services, and family caregiver support all in one practice. This is a must listen for all caregivers!
This episode of BrainStorm is sponsored by Lundbeck US.
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What's the purpose of a long life if our brains can't enjoy it? Paul Irving, Senior Advisor at the Milken Institute on the Future of Longevity and Dean of Faculty at USC's Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, challenges conventional thinking about aging and longevity in a conversation with host, Meryl Comer. Together they address the critical distinction between longevity and brain health and explore why maintaining cognitive function matters more than simply extending lifespan. Paul shares insights into intergenerational collaboration and fighting ageism to create healthier, more productive later years.
Join us for this enlightening conversation that will transform how you think about aging, purpose, and creating a life of meaning regardless of your current age.
If you have a story about your caregiving experience, share it with us at stories@usagainstalzheimers.org to help advocate for continued research funding.
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In this episode of BrainStorm, Paul Irving discusses the PBS documentary produced by Bradley Cooper called Caregiving with host Meryl Comer. Their conversation centers on the widespread impact of caregiving in America, where over 53 million people provide unpaid care for loved ones with conditions like Alzheimer's. Irving emphasizes that caregiving is a universal human experience that creates significant economic challenges, with the Milken Institute estimating losses around $1 trillion annually. Irving advocates for developing "care-aware cultures" in workplaces and society and he stresses that human capital is any organization's most important asset. This is a must listen episode for everyone.
Learn how you can share your personal story at stories@usagainstalzheimers.org.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer continues explore the challenges of false Alzheimer's diagnosis in her interview with Doreen Monks, a former neuroscience nurse practitioner. Upon re-examination, Monks' diagnosis was revised eight years later as mixed dementia, but the stigma of Alzheimer's has already taken its toll.
Part 2 highlights issues in the dementia diagnosis process, the gap between scientific advances and clinical practice, and the emotional toll of misdiagnosis. Doreen Monks' personal journey offers both practical advice and emotional support for others facing similar challenges, emphasizing hope, proactive health management, and the need for scientific advances reaching clinical practice more efficiently. Take a listen!
BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Genentech (gene.com)
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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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.
BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is sponsored by Genentech (gene.com)
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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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.
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Alzheimer’s is not just an aging issue, but a lifelong brain health challenge that has major global, economic, and societal implications. George Vradenburg, Chairman and Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, who has incubated satellite organizations globally to address these issues, debriefs BrainStorm host Meryl Comer on the recent launch of “Brain House” at the Davos World Economic Forum. Together they explore the potential role of AI in enhancing brain capacity, the fragile state of Alzheimer's research funding, and the business case for diverse representation in clinical trials. You don’t want to miss this leadership episode.
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger.
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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.
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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!
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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 Roniger
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Spirituality can often be used to provide support to families and caregivers coping with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver and Dean of Yale Divinity School, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2019, talks about her spiritual journey with BrainStorm 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 Roniger
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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.
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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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
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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 Eisai
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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 Eisai
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Music and other forms of art can positively impact brain health, mental well-being, and quality of life. Renée Fleming, World Renowned Soprano and Global Arts Health Advocate discusses the intersection of arts and health with host Meryl Comer. Fleming and Comer dive into how a connection to music can provide healing elements and therapy for various conditions. Her 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. This interview kicks off BrainStorm’s series on Music and Mind. You won’t want to miss the first episode of this six-part series!
Support for BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's is provided by Genentech
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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!
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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 Roniger
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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 and Dr. Tariot delve into the neuropsychiatric features of dementia and highlight advancements on how to manage these challenging symptoms and behaviors in order to keep a loved one at home. You won’t want to miss this episode.
This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.
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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.
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Join us for part 2 of BrainStorm’s interview with Dr. Rudy Tanzi, Director of Genetics and Aging Research Unit and The McCance Center for Brain Health. Host Meryl Comer delves into whether Dr. Tanzi practices what he preaches on brain health and the efficacy of different brain health supplements to increase cognitive longevity. Dr. Tanzi, the Kennedy Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, also spoke about the role AI plays in accelerating clinical trials and how his musical talents improve his creativity as a scientist. You won’t want to miss it.
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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, Diet
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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 Roniger
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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.
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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 Roniger
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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 Roniger
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In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer continues her care partner conversation with Leigh Callahan, a respected epidemiologist and researcher about her journey with her husband, Dr. John Winfield, a distinguished career as a researcher and rheumatologist until Alzheimer's changed everything. Listen as Dr. Callahan reflects on the challenges of managing his agitation and why she thinks the FDA needs to hear and consider the patient/caregiver perspective.
This episode is sponsored by Otsuka and Lundbeck.
Produced by Susan Quirk and Amber Roniger
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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.
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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 and Lundbeck
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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 Roniger
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The Alliance for Aging Research President and Chief Executive Officer, Sue Peschin, leads the fight for Alzheimer’s drugs to be treated like other drugs when it comes to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) coverage. Peschin and host Meryl Comer dive into polling data that reveals most American voters, regardless of party, disagree with CMS’s policy. Their conversation sheds light on how egregious the coverage decision is and how it will create greater disparities.
This episode is sponsored by Eisai.
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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. 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/
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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.org
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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.org
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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.
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Rebecca Chopp, Ph.D., built a life around a profession that prized the mind and then was unexpectedly diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver, President of Swarthmore College and Colgate University, and Dean and Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School, talks with Meryl Comer about the role of spirituality and emancipatory transformation in managing life through the prism of her early onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
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Rebecca Chopp, Ph.D., built a life around a profession that prized the mind and then was unexpectedly diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Hear how Dr. Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver, President of Swarthmore College and Colgate University, and Dean and Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School, learned to embrace joy after coming to terms with her Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
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In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer talks with Dr. Rudy Tanzi, Vice-Chair of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, Co-Director of the McCance Center for Brain Health and Professor at Harvard Medical School and co-author of 4 books with integrative medicine guru, Deepak Chopra. Hear what Dr. Tanzi discovered through his creative collaboration with Mr. Chopra and what can be done to offset the risk of Alzheimer’s through Dr. Tanzi’s action plan, SHIELD.
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Will 2023 be a boom or bust year for new Alzheimer’s drugs?
In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer talks with Dr. Rudy Tanzi, Vice-Chair of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, Co-Director of the McCance Center for Brain Health and Professor at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Tanzi discusses the promising new drugs in a highly charged scientific environment and how these drugs have opened the door to advancement in the treatment of Alzheimer’s.
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The Food and Drug Administration expedited approval of Lecanemab, a drug developed by Eisai and Biogen, that demonstrated positive results in slowing Alzheimer's disease. What does this mean for the future of Alzheimer’s advocacy?
In this episode of BrainStorm host Meryl Comer talks with George Vradenburg, Chairman and Co-Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, Convener of Global CEOi and Co-Convener with the World Economic Forum of the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative. They explore the implications of the approval of Lecanemab (or Leqembi) worldwide and whether the approval encourages healthy at-risk adults 50 plus to understand their dementia risk profile.
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The Food and Drug Administration expedited approval of Lecanemab, a drug developed by Eisai and Biogen, that demonstrated positive results in slowing Alzheimer's disease. What does this mean for the future of Alzheimer’s advocacy?
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer talks with George Vradenburg, Chairman and Co-Founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, Convener of Global CEOi and Co-Convener with the World Economic Forum of the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative. They discuss the immediate implications of the drug approval, how it will impact the Alzheimer’s movement, and what it means for the future of Alzheimer’s disease.
Do you have feedback or an idea for the podcast? Send us a note at BrainStorm@usagainstalzheimers.org.
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Rising longevity and the aging of boomers worldwide are radically altering both the demographic landscape and every aspect of our personal, social, financial, and political lives.
In this episode of BrainStorm, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s National Summit keynote speaker Ken Dychtwald, Founder and CEO of Age Wave, talks about the future of health, medicine, aging, and longevity. What gero-science breakthroughs are currently at the tipping point and how can we ensure that our health spans and brain spans match our life spans? Dr. Dychtwald is counted among the foremost visionaries and original thinkers in the field and was honored by World Leaders magazine as one the world’s visionary leaders making an impact in 2022.
Do you have feedback or an idea for the podcast? Send us a note at BrainStorm@usagainstalzheimers.org.
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Your brain controls and coordinates everything your body does from the movement of your fingers to your heart rate. It also plays a crucial role in how you control and process your emotions.
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer continues her conversation with Dr. Larry Cahill, Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior at the University of California, Irvine. They discuss why sex matters in neuroscience and how it influences the brain and emotional memory. Dr. Cahill’s research on sex-based differences gained national media attention around the sleep medication Ambien when it showed that women were negatively affected by the prescribed dosing for men.
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We all know the bodies of men and women are different. Now research shows the brain of men and women are different as well.
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer speaks with Dr. Larry Cahill, Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior at the University of California, Irvine. They discuss why sex matters in neuroscience and how sex and gender influence the brain and emotional memory. Dr. Cahill’s research on sex-based differences gained national media attention around the sleep medication Ambient with its impact on the brains of women versus men. Dr. Cahill is also writing the first textbook, examining sex and gender in the brain.
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Alzheimer’s prevention, early detection, and access to treatments that builds equity for all must begin within communities.
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer speaks with Dr. Fayron Epps, Assistant Professor and Director of Community Engagement and Research, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University. They discuss the commitment Dr. Epps and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s has made to educate minority communities on ways to maintain a healthy brain and support families facing dementia. Dr. Epps has a strategy to engage communities and meet them where they are which is beginning to break down barriers.
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In part two of BrainStorm sleep and Alzheimer's series, host Meryl Comer speaks with Erik K. St. Louis, M.D, M.S., Co-Director of the Center for Sleep Medicine and Director of the Mayo Sleep Behavior and Neurophysiology Research Laboratory, at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. St. Louis gets down to the basics of the sleep-brain connection and the science behind it. In this episode, learn how to create the best environment for sleep.
To watch The National Alzheimer's Virtual Summit go to AlzSummit.org to see recorded sessions.
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People of all ages worry about not getting enough sleep, and yet many don’t mention it as a concern to their doctor. When it comes to brain health, how important IS a good night’s sleep?
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer speaks with Erik K. St. Louis, M.D, M.S., Co-Director of the Center for Sleep Medicine and Director of the Mayo Sleep Behavior and Neurophysiology Research Laboratory, at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. St. Louis gets down to the basics of the sleep-brain connection and the science behind it. In part one of our two-part series on sleep, learn why people experience more sleep problems as they and how to measure a good night’s sleep.
Dr. St. Louis’ class on learning to prioritize sleep can be found at UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Brain Health Academy. To register for his class and learn more about Brain Health Academy, go to https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/brain-health-academy.
To register for National Alzheimer's Virtual Summit go to AlzSummit.org and attend for free.
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In part 2 of BrainStorm, Nutrition and Alzheimer's, host Meryl Comer continues to speak with Ayesha Z. Sherzai, MD, MAS, Vascular Neurologist, Research Scientist and Dean Sherzai, MD, PhD, MPH, MAS, Behavioral Neurologist / Neuroscientist; and Co-directors of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Program at Loma Linda University. This dynamic husband and wife duo lead the largest clinical and observational study on Alzheimer's. Their book “The Alzheimer’s Solution” on the brain-food connection shows how to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s with a healthy diet.
Their class on brain healthy living to improve cognitive function at UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Brain Health Academy .To register for their class and learn more about Brain Health Academy, go to https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/brain-health-academy.
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Poor nutrition is a major health problem that affects every part of the body, including the brain. It is among the top risk factors for dementia.
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer speaks with Ayesha Z. Sherzai, MD, MAS, Vascular Neurologist, Research Scientist and Dean Sherzai, MD, PhD, MPH, MAS, Behavioral Neurologist / Neuroscientist; and Co-directors of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Program at Loma Linda University. This dynamic husband and wife duo lead the largest clinical and observational study on Alzheimer's. Their book “The Alzheimer’s Solution” on the brain-food connection shows how to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s with a healthy diet.
Their class on brain healthy living to improve cognitive function at UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Brain Health Academy .To register for their class and learn more about Brain Health Academy, go to https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/brain-health-academy.
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BrainStorm Episode 23: Glenda Wrenn Gordon, MD, MSHP – The Power of Telehealth
The United States and much of the world continues to face a brain and mental health crisis that has worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic recession. Last year, nearly 40% of adults reported symptoms of depression or extreme stress. These are both risk factors for Alzheimer’s and dementia.
In this episode of BrainStorm, host Meryl Comer speaks with Glenda Wrenn Gordon. MD, MSHP, President of Mindoula Clinical Services, about the power of telehealth and the important role of technology. Dr. Wrenn Gordon talks about the value telehealth provides from early detection of dementia to caregiver support. Learn the importance of culturally centered integrated care in supporting mental health.
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s offers BrainGuide, a platform to help you or a loved one test your memory with customized support resources. Learn more at mybrainguide.org.
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The global pandemic brought issues of diversity and equity in healthcare to the forefront. By 2030, nearly 40 percent of all Americans living with Alzheimer’s will be Black or Latino. Latinos are 1.5 times as likely as non-Hispanic Whites to develop Alzheimer’s.
In this episode, BrainStorm host Meryl Comer speaks with Dr. Jane Delgado, President and Chief Executive Officer of The National Alliance for Hispanic Health and author of the book series, The Buena Salud® Guides and The Latina Guide to Health.
Listen as Dr. Delgado shares how diversity in equity is about seeing everyone, and what is being missed when the health profile of black and brown communities are lumped together to evaluate current models of health and risk factors.
After the episode, learn more about UsAgainstAlzheimer’s equity work at https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/health-disparities-race-and-alzheimers
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The Alzheimer's journey can range from three to twenty-plus years. Typically, people living with late-stage Alzheimer's or another dementia decline to a point when they are no longer able to communicate. But for some, after years of relative silence, they can suddenly communicate coherently, even if only for a short period of time. This phenomenon is called paradoxical lucidity in dementia.
In this episode of BrainStorm, Meryl Comer speaks with Dr. Joan M. Griffin, Professor of Health Services Research at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Consultant at the Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery at the Mayo Clinic, about the moments when people in the late stage of Alzheimer’s regain the ability to communicate. Listen as Dr. Griffin’s delves into her landmark study to understand these lucid moments, and how they affect family caregivers. Learn about some triggers and what these moments mean.
After the episode, learn more about UsAgainstAlzheimer’s A-LIST®, an online community where people with dementia, caregivers and anyone interested in brain health come together to better understand the experience of living with the disease, caring for a loved one, and how to take care of our brains. Join more than 10,000 A-LIST members answering monthly surveys that help the world know what matters most to us. Sign up at ALIST4research.org.
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The Global Be Brain Powerful BrainTrust and U.S. BrainTrust quarterly dialogues are a collaboration between two like-minded initiatives focused on elevating the importance of women's brain and mental health. A recent dialogue explored Alzheimer’s prevention and the role sex and gender play in brain health.
In this episode of BrainStorm, Mara Hank Moret, Vice Chair of the Global BBP BrainTrust and Honorary President of the Women's Brain Projects in Switzerland talks with Dr. Lisa Mosconi, Director of the Alzheimer's Prevention Program at Weill Cornell Medicine and author of the New York Times bestseller, The XX Brain and the international bestseller Brain Food. Listen as they discuss the importance of stress management and developing healthy routines, particularly for women, prior to menopause.
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s offers BrainGuide, a platform to help you or a loved one test your memory with customized support resources. Learn more at mybrainguide.org.
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The World Health Organization has put brain and mental health at the top of their agenda as a wakeup call to all countries to do a better job supporting their populations. Princess Tatiana of Greece and Denmark, in the midst of the global pandemic, launched BREATHE, a Mindful Mental Health Movement dedicated to raising awareness around mental health and building healthier, more resilient communities.
Host, Meryl Comer, and Princess Tatiana discuss the stunning increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression around the Globe in the first year of the pandemic. Greece is making strides by appointing a Minister For Mental Health with the hope other counties will follow. Princess Tatiana and her organization, BREATHE, have partnered with the government to launch a national campaign “Keep Your Mind on Your Mind” raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health. Hear Princess Tatiana’s own personal story and why talking about mental health is so important.
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s A-LIST® is an online community where anyone interested in brain health come together to research the experience of living with Alzheimer’s, caring for a loved one, and how we take care of our brains. Join more than 10,000 A-LIST members answering monthly surveys letting the world know what matters most to us. Sign up at ALIST4research.org
Hear Rudy Tanzi’s BrainStorm interview referenced in this episode.
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After her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, award-winning writer Amy Bloom faced an unimaginable choice. Her latest nonfiction “In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss”, is a powerful book that probes the unvarnished reality into Alzheimer’s.
In Part 2 of our interview with author Amy Bloom, host, Meryl Comer, discusses the very personal decision to honor her husband, Brian Amici’s decision to end his life. As Amy experienced there are no options available for Alzheimer’s patients in the United States without risks and legal ramifications. Their decision to go to Switzerland was the only option.
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s A-LIST® is an online community where people with dementia, caregivers and anyone interested in brain health come together to research the experience of living with the disease, caring for a loved one, and how we take care of our brains. Join more than 10,000 A-LIST members answering monthly surveys letting the world know what matters most to us. Sign up at ALIST4research.org
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After her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, award-winning writer Amy Bloom faced an unimaginable choice. Her latest nonfiction, “In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss,” is a powerful book that probes the unvarnished reality into Alzheimer’s.
Host, Meryl Comer, talks with Amy about her husband’s behavior and forgetfulness before diagnosis and the reaction of others to their very personal decision. Ultimately, they find a courageous way, together, to honor his decision to end his life. Listen to Amy’s conversation with Meryl and their discussion of the limited options available for Alzheimer’s patients that they felt ultimately left them with no other option.
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2022 is already proving to be one of the most pivotal years in the history of the fight against Alzheimer’s. Along with major accomplishments in areas like research and prevention, Alzheimer’s patients have been caught in the crossfire of inter-agency politics between the FDA and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), which recently announced it would deny Medicare coverage for FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatments unless patients participate in highly restrictive clinical trials.
George Vradenburg, Co-Founder and Chairman of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and Russ Paulsen, Chief Operating Officer, join host, Meryl Comer, to review the Alzheimer’s Advocacy scorecard. They discuss successes that include the creation of ARPA-H (Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health), increased funding for research, and the addition of a prevention goal in the National Alzheimer’s Plan - major successes for patients that are clouded by the recent ruling issued by CMS. Listen to the conversation as they talk about this unprecedented decision and its impact on not only Alzheimer’s patients but other patient groups, like cancer, that benefit from the FDA’s Accelerated Approval Program.
You can help reduce stigma and misconceptions about dementia and empower others to speak freely and live life to the fullest. Share your experiences by email at story@usagainstalzheimers.org. The Story Project by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s: Giving Voice to What Matters Most, will feature the stories of people who are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
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World renowned neuroscientist Lisa Genova joins BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer, to discuss her latest New York Times bestseller, Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting.
Their provocative conversation delves into how memories are made, how we retrieve them, and what is considered normal forgetting - like where you left your keys or your phone. Genova shares that “it’s normal to forget. “Our brains are designed to remember what's meaningful, emotional, surprising, and new and what we repeat over and over and over again.” She makes the point that you can only capture and later retain and recall what you pay attention to and that when you do recall an event, reminisce, and store it back in your brain, it overwrites the original.
Lisa Genova’s TED Talk, What you can do to prevent Alzheimer's has been viewed more than 5 million times and her book Still Alice has been translated into 37 languages and adapted into an academy award winning, film.
UsAgainstAlzheimer's offers BrainGuide, a platform to help you or a loved one self-test your memory. More information can be found at mybrainguide.org.
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One of the stunning success stories of the Twentieth Century is longevity. Japan was the first super-aged country where more than one in five people are age 65 or older. Much of Europe joined in 2020 and the United States is expected to reach this milestone by 2030.
BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer, and guest, Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, discuss care for older adults in the United States and around the world. Dr. Fulmer is President of The John A. Hartford Foundation and co-author of, Age Friendly Health Systems: A Guide to Using the 4Ms While Caring for Oder Adults. Listen as Dr. Fulmer provides insights into delivering age-friendly care to older adults, in all settings, using the four Ms: what matters, medication, mentation and mobility.
You can help reduce stigma and misconceptions about dementia and empower others to speak freely and live life to the fullest. Share your experiences by email at story@usagainstalzheimers.org. The Story Project by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s: Giving Voice to What Matters Most will feature the stories of people who are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Support the show (https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org)
The journey to a dementia diagnosis for millions of people and their families is fraught with the stigma of a disease currently with no cure.
BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer, and guest, Deborah Kan, discuss the early stages of the Alzheimer's journey, the devastating diagnosis, and the realities of what comes next. Deborah Kan is a journalist and former editor for The Wall Street Journal Asia and Founder of Being Patient, a health platform solely dedicated to covering Alzheimer's disease.
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s offers BrainGuide, a platform to help you or a loved one test your memory with customized support resources. Learn more at mybrainguide.org.
You can help reduce stigma and misconceptions about dementia and empower others to speak freely and live life to the fullest. Share your experiences by email at story@usagainstalzheimers.org. The Story Project by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s: Giving Voice to What Matters Most will feature the stories of people who are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Support the show (https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org)
Brain and mental health that drive Alzheimer’s prevention are top of mind worldwide as we work to redefine a new normal post pandemic. Recovering from the emotional anxiety and stress juggling work, family, and caregiving requires new strategies.
BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer, and guest, Dr. Wendy Suzuki, professor of neuroscience in psychology in the Center for Neuroscience at New York University and an international authority on neuroplasticity, discuss how to rethink the brain-emotion connection. Dr. Suzuki’s Ted Talk on Exercise and the Brain has more than 14 million views and her latest book, “Good Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of the Most Misunderstood Emotion” provides strategies to keep the brain healthy, use anxiety as a superpower and get a handle on the negative triggers.
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Every February, Black History Month, the U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shaped our nation's history. This year's theme, black health and wellness, pays homage to medical scholars and healthcare providers.
BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer, and guest, Dr. Jonathan Jackson, a cognitive neuroscientist on the faculty at Harvard Medical School with a specialty in the early detection of Alzheimer's, discuss the barriers to clinical research for people and communities of color. In addition, Alzheimer’s and related dementias carry their own stigma in the general population, which becomes even more complex in communities of color. Hear their timely conversation.
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In honor of black history month, BrainStorm looks at the future through a societal lens as the US population transitions to minority majority. Dr. Pernessa Seele, founder and CEO of The Balm in Gilead and longtime public health advocate, talks about the public health implications of this shift. Host, Meryl Comer, and Dr. “P” discuss the burden, impact and reality of stigma. With three decades of training and services to prevent disease and improve the health status of people of African descent, she is well aware of the hurdles to overcome and undo the stigma.
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The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal health insurance program for people 65 plus, announced its decision to deny covering Biogen’s Aduhelm and all future anti-amyloid treatments under what is known as a Coverage with Evidence Development (CED). What does this first-round decision mean?
BrainStorm host, Meryl Comer, and guest, Stephanie Monroe, Executive Director of AfricanAmericansAgainstAlzheimer's and Co-Director of the Center for Brain Health Equity discuss the underlying issues that she calls discriminatory, particularly for communities of color.
Russ Paulsen, Chief Operating Officer at UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, offers a statement on why UsAgainstAlzheimer’s opposes the CMS decision and provides a statement explaining what this means for those living with Alzheimer’s.
The proposed National Coverage Determination is open to public comment for 30 days (until Feb 9). A final decision will be announced in April.
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The excitement of a new year brings with it an opportunity to reset our priorities. And what could be more important than taking care of your brain? Laura D Baker, PhD and professor at Wake Forest School of Medicine, shares her research on Alzheimer’s prevention and improving brain health.
Learn how lifestyle interventions and self-care may protect us against cognitive decline, and hear Dr. Baker’s top 4 lifestyle interventions for a healthier mind and body.
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Families are complicated. Dale Atkins, PhD, author of “The Kindness Advantage”, talks with Meryl Comer about how to manage stress with family, particularly in the Alzheimer’s community. In this episode of BrainStorm, learn how to prepare family members for the changes in loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or dementia and learn to engage with them in new and different ways. Dr. Adkins gives advice on reading your own stress cues and strategies for difficult moment with family members. To help with caregiver stress be a good listener, keep as healthy as possible and “park the past” to find balance in your life as recommended by Dr. Adkins.
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This SPECIAL EDITION of BrainStorm gives voice to those living with dementia. Hear from three individuals: journalist, Greg O'Brien, The Very Reverend Tracey Lind, and advocate for the Latino Community, Daisy Duarte. Each refuse to let their diagnosis or risk for Alzheimer's define them and have become their own best advocate for change.
This special episode celebrates the 5th anniversary of UsAgainstAlzheimer's A-LIST, an online community of 10,000—where people with Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias, or mild cognitive impairment, as well as family caregivers and people interested in brain health—come together to research the experience of living with this disease and caring for a loved one. We call it the science of us. Hear host, Meryl Comer, and guest, Virginia Biggar, Executive Director of Communities, discuss the A-LIST data and what matters most to the Alzheimer's community.
Join the A-LIST at AList4research.org.
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Patti Davis, daughter of President Ronald Reagan and author of Floating in the Deep End shares her experience as an Alzheimer’s caregiver, sheds light on her family’s experience with AD, and offers insights for dementia caregivers.
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Three former U.S. Surgeons General - Dr. Richard Carmona, Dr. Jocelyn Elders, and Dr. David Satcher have been trailblazers in standing up against systemic racism and health care inequity throughout their careers. For Dr. Satcher and Dr. Elders, their connection to Alzheimer’s is very personal.
In this episode of BrainStorm, listen to these Surgeons General talk about communities with higher incidences of Alzheimer’s, trying to move the needle toward health equity, and the importance of brain health.
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Are we ready to end Alzheimer's? Hell no. That is the view of George Vradenburg, chairman and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, as he talks about the progress made to end Alzheimer’s during his opening remarks of our 2021 National Alzheimer’s Summit.
But he's not giving up and neither is UsAgainstAlzheimer's. Hope is finally here in the fight against Alzheimer's disease, but more work remains before we are ready to end this disease. In this episode of BrainStorm, listen to George Vradenburg's assessment of where we are and where we need to be in this fight. Hear stories from care partners and those living with the disease about the value of research and how their needs and insights guide UsAgainstAlzhiemer’s advocacy with policymakers.
BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s airs on the first and third Tuesday of each month.
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Co-Authors Daniel R. George, PhD, MSc, medical anthropologist and Associate Professor at Penn State College of Medicine and Peter J. Whitehouse, MD, PhD, Professor of Neurology at Case Western Reserve University and professor of medicine at University of Toronto discuss their book, "American Dementia: Brain Health in an Unhealthy Society". In this episode of BrainStorm, Meryl Comer's conversation with the authors covers the persisting inequalities in brain health and ageist tendencies in our culture. They discuss how local communities can rise above the disconnect and loneliness and come together to care for struggling neighbors. Listen in to hear what Drs. Whitehouse and George believe is the "game-changer" in this fight against Alzheimer's.
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BrainStorm by UsAgainstAlzheimer's launched on World Alzheimer's Day with guest Dr. Rudy Tanzi, a recognized rock star in AD research who discovered the three genes associated with early-onset Alzheimer’s and is a staunch proponent of prevention. In this episode, host Meryl Comer helps people understand the importance of knowing all the signs and symptoms so we can get the right diagnosis and support. Learn what Dr. Tanzi believes is the "game-changer" in this fight against Alzheimer's.
Support the show (https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org)
BrainStorm, a free podcast series by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, features conversations with doctors, researchers, authors and luminaries, people living with dementia and their caregivers. We’ll delve into what matters most to you about your brain, and ask questions about keeping your memory sharp and maintaining optimal brain health. Learn about the latest in the science of longevity, Alzheimer’s and cognitive disease research. We’ll look at disparities in diseases, and equity and access for all. New episodes, hosted by Meryl Comer, are available first and third Tuesdays of every month. Join Us!
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved aducanumab as a new treatment for early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, and this AlzTalks explores what this means for the Alzheimer’s community.
Host Meryl Comer talked about the drug treatment with Biogen’s Samantha Budd Haeberlein, PhD, SVP, Head of Neurodegeneration Development and Karin Hellsvik, Head, External Communications and Patient Advocacy, and had a conversation about the decision with George Vradenburg, chairman and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s; Russ Paulsen, UsA’s chief operating officer; and Jason Resendez, executive director of the UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Center for Brain Health Equity.
Meryl Comer also spoke about this new drug with advocates Jim and Geri Taylor. Geri, who lives with Alzheimer’s disease, participated in the clinical trial for this therapy.
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Life during the pandemic has many of us experiencing brain fog, fearing mental decline, and feeling overwhelmed as never before. Now, as we move toward a post-pandemic world, the sense of being overwhelmed might increase even more. The good news is that adopting brain-healthy practices can help us do some housecleaning in our minds, allowing us to feel sharper and more capable of adapting to changes by overcoming challenges and being in control of our lives.
In this episode of BrainStorm, you will hear Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, founder and chief director of the Center for BrainHealth at The University of Texas at Dallas provide strategies to combat brain fog and the feeling of being overwhelmed. You’ll also hear some remarks from Retired Admiral William McRaven, ninth commander of the United States Special Operations Command, regarding the kind of brain we all want and need.
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Concerned about memory and brain health for yourself or a loved one? This UsAgainstAlzheimer’s BrainStorm webinar focuses on our new BrainGuide™, a powerful free platform that empowers people from all communities to find their way to helpful resources that provide a path forward in their brain health journey..
In this episode of BrainStorm, you will hear about the successful launch of BrainGuide … a first-of-its kind platform supporting those proactively working to improve brain health, concerned about memory, seeking more information after receiving a diagnosis, or caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s.
Russ Paulsen, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s Chief Operating Officer, and Brooks Kenny, General Manager of BrainGuide, discuss the development and management of the platform in their fight against Alzheimer’s. You’ll learn about the development of BrainGuide in collaboration with Amazon Web Services.
Dr. Philip Gorelick, Adjunct Professor of Neurology at the Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University, and Neurologist at Northwestern Medical Group, explains how BrainGuide starts an important doctor patient conversation about brain health.
April is Minority Health Month, and Marsha Henderson, former Associate Commissioner for Women’s Health at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, speaks about how BrainGuide addresses health equity and removes barriers because it is free to all communities.
BrainGuide, which is available in English and Spanish, provides automated, confidential memory questionnaires that can be self-administered or taken as a caregiver. When the questionnaire is complete, BrainGuide offers tailored resources based on the answers provided.
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