Description

Feel like your brain just isn’t keeping up? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. For many living with Alzheimer’s, the toughest part isn’t memory loss itself—it’s the fear of losing your sense of self. 
 
In this empowering episode, Janna shares how she’s using simple, creative strategies to keep her brain engaged and her spirit thriving. From playful crossword workarounds to redefining everyday labels, she shows how small shifts can create powerful new neural pathways—and help restore confidence along the way. 

You’ll discover: 

• What neural pathways are, and how to create new ones after diagnosis 
• How Janna and her care partner use crosswords differently to build brain flexibility 
• Why celebrating “small wins” helps rewire both your brain and your mindset 
• The power of choosing words like “thriver” and “care partner” to reclaim identity 
• How to teach others to support—not sideline—you 

Related Research & Articles 

• Show Notes – Revised Resource Section 

Related Research & Articles 

1. Plasticity in Early Alzheimer's Disease: An Opportunity for Intervention — Review showing potential in adaptive neural rewiring postdiagnosis. 
   Dr. Brian Ableson 
    
2. Physical Activity and Neuroplasticity in Neurodegenerative Disorders — How exercise and dual-task cognitive engagement strengthen neural pathways. Frontiers 
3. Lifelong Cognitive Reserve Reduces Dementia Risk — Meta-analysis linkin enriched lifestyles to lower dementia incidence. PMC  
    
4. Association of Lifelong Cognitive Reserve with Dementia and MCI — Cohort data showing cognitive resilience even among low-education elder populations. MCI 
    
5. Why Words Matter: “Care Partner” vs “Caregiver” – Alzheimer’s San Diego
   Discusses the language shift from “caregiver” to “care partner,” emphasizing empowerment and mutual respect. 
   Alzheimer’s San Diego 

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.