Shows
Dementia DiscussionsThe Soul Doesn’t Get Dementia: Connecting Beyond Words in CaregivingIn this episode, I sit down with dementia counselor, educator, and author Tami Anastasia for a deeply meaningful conversation about what really drives behavior in dementia care. We go beyond surface-level symptoms and talk about the powerful role personal history, emotional patterns, and past trauma play once the brain can no longer filter or suppress them. This is one of those conversations that can completely change how you see dementia caregiving.Tami joins me to discuss her newest book, Dementia Caregiving & Personal History: How to Help Cope, Connect, and Heal, and why this...
2025-12-1742 minDementia DiscussionsWhen Words Fade: Christine's Story of Love, Loss, and AdaptationIn this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I sit down with Christine, a member of my Alzheimer's Los Angeles caregiver support group and a wife navigating the difficult journey of her husband Steve's early-onset dementia. Christine and I talk about their 46-year marriage, how his brilliant legal career slowly unraveled, and the emotional toll that comes with losing the person you love in pieces.Christine shares her personal reflections with honesty, humor, and wisdom. From the early warning signs she didn't recognize, to the agonizing process of telling their adult children and his law firm, to letting...
2025-11-0559 min
Dementia DiscussionsDementia, Caregiving & Exit Strategies: A Conversation with Madeline JayeThis week on Dementia Discussions, I sit down with someone very close to my heart—my childhood best friend, Madeline Jaye. We reconnected after many years, and I was deeply moved to learn that she’s been navigating her own journey as a caregiver to her mother, Bonnie, who now lives with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Madeline doesn’t just share her caregiving story—she’s also transformed her experience into a one-woman play that’s as hilarious as it is heartbreaking.In this episode, Madeline and I reflect on what it means to care for someo...
2025-09-1753 minDementia DiscussionsA Son’s Devotion — Steve Lavapies on Navigating Caregiving, Decline, and ConnectionI’m honored to welcome Steve Lavapies, a devoted son and a thoughtful member of one of our UCLA caregiver support groups. Steve shares the deeply personal journey of caring for his mother, a brilliant and resilient woman who immigrated to the U.S., became a physician, and faced a long and complex decline due to physical illness and dementia.In this episode, Steve opens up about the realities of caregiving as an only child, the emotional and logistical weight of moving his mom through assisted living, memory care, and ultimately hospice. We talk about guilt, grief, re...
2025-09-1150 minDementia DiscussionsCaring Through Chaos: Lorena Llamas' Journey as a Daughter and CaregiverWelcome back to Dementia Discussions. In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my dental hygienist, Lorena Llamas, who opens up about a deeply personal journey—caring for her beloved father, recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. What started as small, everyday memory lapses soon led Lorena down a path of advocacy, navigating doctors, family dynamics, and the emotional rollercoaster of watching a parent change before your eyes.Lorena shares tender stories about her dad's lively spirit, his close bond with family, and how a recent family cruise turned into a powerful wake-up call about the realities of deme...
2025-08-1456 minDementia DiscussionsNavigating Dementia with Compassion and Clarity: A Candid Talk with Dr. Miriam WinthropWelcome back to Dementia Discussions! I’m so grateful to be back with you after a bit of a hiatus, and today’s episode is a truly meaningful one. I sit down with Dr. Miriam Winthrop, an adult and geriatric psychiatrist whose compassionate approach and wealth of knowledge make her a true gem in the dementia care world. We open up about the recent California fires that disrupted both our lives and how trauma and caregiving intersect, especially in these unpredictable times.This conversation dives deep into the emotional, medical, and behavioral complexities of dementia. Dr. Winthrop shar...
2025-07-1753 minDementia DiscussionsAlzheimer’s Caregiving: A Journey of Love, Patience, and ResilienceWelcome to the first episode of season three of Dementia Discussions! In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Charlene, a dedicated caregiver navigating the emotional and practical challenges of supporting her sister-in-law with Alzheimer’s. Charlene brings a unique perspective as a sister-in-law and sibling, sharing deeply personal stories about her family's journey through this devastating disease.We explore the complexities of caregiving, from handling denial and family dynamics to managing difficult conversations and making tough decisions. Charlene’s resilience, compassion, and humor shine through as she offers practical tips, emotional insights, and a dose of insp...
2025-01-0951 minDementia DiscussionsNavigating Love and Loss: A Caregiver's Tale of Resilience with Andrew BloomenthalIn this poignant episode, I sit down with Andrew Bloomenthal, a writer and caregiver, to delve into his heartfelt story about navigating his father’s journey with Parkinson’s-related dementia. Andrew’s article in Boston Magazine struck a chord with readers, and today he joins us to share the deeply personal moments that shaped his caregiving experience. From navigating family dynamics to finding moments of levity and grace in the midst of confusion, Andrew’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and love. This episode is a testament to the strength of caregivers and the unbreakable bonds of family.
2024-12-1245 minDementia DiscussionsUntil There’s a Cure, There’s Community: Wine, Women, and DementiaIn this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I’m joined by the incredible Kitty Norton, a former assistant editor turned caregiver, blogger, and filmmaker. Kitty shares her inspiring journey from her mother’s dementia diagnosis to becoming her primary caregiver, a role that profoundly changed her life. We explore her transition into advocacy through her candid blog, Stumped Town Dementia, and her documentary film Wine, Women, and Dementia, which is now airing on PBS.Kitty brings her signature humor and raw honesty as we discuss caregiving challenges, family dynamics, and how humor can be a lifeline in even...
2024-11-1952 minDementia DiscussionsNavigating Changes with Lewy Body DementiaIn this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sherri, a devoted caregiver whose husband Ray has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. Sherri shares her journey, from noticing the first subtle changes in Ray's behavior to the emotional and practical challenges they face today.We delve into how Ray's fearless personality and active lifestyle shifted dramatically as the disease progressed, and how Sherri has had to adapt to these changes. This episode is a touching reminder of the resilience and love that caregivers embody, and it offers insights and advice that can help others facing...
2024-09-1053 minDementia DiscussionsRebuilding Relationships Through DementiaIn this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I'm joined by Robin Degtjarewsky, a listener who reached out to share her inspiring story about caring for her mother, who lives with dementia. Robin opens up about her journey from dealing with her mother's hoarding issues to managing her care from a distance and navigating the challenges that come with dementia. Robin shares the unexpected silver linings that have brought her closer to her mom and offers valuable tips for other caregivers facing similar challenges.Join us as we delve into Robin's personal experiences, the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving...
2024-08-1354 minDementia DiscussionsLove and Resilience while Caregiving for Multiple System Atrophy and DementiaIn this episode, I sat down with Melanie, a member of my dementia with Lewy body support group at the UCLA Mary S. Easton Center. Melanie bravely shares her journey as the sole caregiver for her husband, Monty, who's facing a multitude of health challenges, including multiple system atrophy (MSA), diabetes, and dementia.Through our candid conversation, Melanie opens up about the daily struggles and joys of caring for her beloved husband while striving to maintain her own identity. Her story is one of resilience, love, and finding gratitude in the face of adversity. Monty is a...
2024-07-0946 minDementia DiscussionsA Daughter's Journey Through Dementia CaregivingIn today's episode, we go on a personal journey of caregiving with my guest, Kim, a long-time listener of our podcast and a daughter navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Kim's story is not just moving—it's filled with insights that only a dedicated caregiver can offer. Whether you're a caregiver yourself or just someone interested in understanding the reality of living with dementia, this episode promises to enrich your perspective. Episode Highlights:[00:25] - Kim shares how the podcast has been a lifeline in dealing wit...
2024-06-111h 00Dementia DiscussionsSupporting a Parent with Dementia in Your TwentiesIn today's episode, I have the pleasure of welcoming Skylar, a young caregiver who has been navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Two years ago, Skylar stepped into the role of primary caregiver, a journey filled with both adversity and profound personal growth. Join us as we explore Skylar's experiences, from managing daily care challenges to making tough decisions about assisted living. This conversation promises insights not only into the practical aspects of caregiving but also into the emotional resilience required in such a role.Episode Timeline:[00:32] - Introduction to...
2024-05-1451 minDementia DiscussionsCannabis for Dementia: An Introduction with Dr. Sherry YafaiDr. Sherry Yafai joins me to discuss cannabis as a treatment for many symptoms that arise with dementia. As an emergency room physician turned cannabis clinician, Dr. Yafai shares her expertise on using cannabis for issues like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and pain. We discuss appropriate dosing, cannabis formulations, and most importantly - seeing a specialist versus experimenting on your own.Dr. Yafai stumbled into the world of medical cannabis while working in the ER, with patients mentioning using cannabis for issues like arthritis pain and chemotherapy side effects. She was skeptical at first but dove into the...
2024-04-0945 minDementia DiscussionsBringing Dental Care Home with Gabrielle Mahler, DDSIn this episode, I speak with Dr. Gabrielle "Dr. Gabby" Mahler, a mobile dentist who makes house calls to patients, the majority of whom have varying stages of dementia. Dr. Gabby explains how she can perform cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and denture fittings in clients' homes and residential facilities. She also shares creative strategies for providing oral hygiene care to those who refuse it or cannot do it themselves. About my Guest: Dr. Gabrielle “Dr. Gabby” MahlerDr. Gaby has been practicing mobile dentistry for 14 years. She started working with retirement homes...
2024-03-121h 04Dementia DiscussionsA Comprehensive Look at Dementia with Kevin Jameson, Founder of The Dementia Society of AmericaJoining me in this episode is Kevin Jameson, founder and CEO of the Dementia Society of America. Kevin shares his personal journey of caring for his wife who was diagnosed with dementia, which led him to start this organization. He provides an in-depth look at the various types of dementia, the importance of early diagnosis, and lifestyle changes we can make to reduce our risk. About My Guest, Kevin JamesonKevin started the Dementia Society of America after his wife was diagnosed with dementia in her late 50s. He became her primary c...
2024-02-1340 minDementia DiscussionsBelieving in Yourself as a Caregiver with Tami AnastasiaIn this episode, we invite back special guest, Tami Anastasia. I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the responsibility of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through her private practice, she offers a wide range of support services. This includes counseling and emotional assistance...
2024-01-0950 min
Dementia DiscussionsCreating a Meaningful Holiday Season with Tami AnastasiaThe holidays can be an especially difficult time for dementia caregivers. In this compassionate episode, expert Tammy Anastasia shares her top strategies to reduce caregiver stress, honor feelings of grief, and create new meaningful traditions.I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the...
2023-12-1241 minDementia DiscussionsPlacing My Wife With Alzheimer's in Memory Care with Jay SwerdlowIn this heartfelt episode, I welcome back Jay Swerdlow, a longtime support group member. Jay shares the difficult journey of placing his wife Andy, who has Alzheimer's disease, into memory care. He discusses the challenges of caring for her at home as her disease progressed and delusions worsened. Though it broke his heart, Jay knew he had to make the difficult decision to move Andy to a care facility for both of their wellbeing. He talks about visiting her regularly, dealing with her not always recognizing him, and finding acceptance with where they are in this ongoing journey of...
2023-11-1433 minDementia DiscussionsSupporting Your Loved One Through the Journey of Lewy Body DementiaToday I welcome Debbie, a dedicated wife caring for her husband who is living with Lewy body dementia (LBD). Debbie shares the daily ups and downs of managing her husband's diagnosis, coping strategies that help her stay resilient, and advice for other caregivers walking a similar path.Debbie’s husband was diagnosed with LBD about 5 years ago but exhibited some mild symptoms 10 years prior. He was once an outgoing, successful man who is now grappling with memory loss and confusion. Debbie describes her husband’s strong denial about his diagnosis and his insistence that he’s fine, despit...
2023-10-1034 minDementia DiscussionsNavigating Caregiver Stress and Guilt with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Genifer GoldsmithI had the pleasure of sitting down with clinical psychologist Dr. Genifer Goldsmith to discuss the immense stress and guilt that comes with being a caregiver. Our collaboration in co-facilitating a caregiver support group at UCLA for Alzheimer's Disease Research and care has been nothing short of enlightening. As someone who facilitates a caregiver support group, we see these struggles firsthand. Dr. Goldsmith provides research-backed insights on how to cope. One key element emerges as a cornerstone to enhancing a patient's journey: caregiver support. Join us as we unpack the pivotal role caregivers play and discover the p...
2023-09-1225 minDementia DiscussionsFinding Balance: Self-Care and Compassion in Dementia Caregiving with Beth LanieIn today’s episode, I speak with another member of my support group, Beth Lanie, a devoted caregiver to her husband Howard, who has been diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies. Beth shares her heartfelt experience, providing insights into the challenges, triumphs, and evolving dynamics of caregiving for a loved one with a progressive neurological condition.Beth discusses Howard's background as an aerospace engineer and their 42-year marriage. She opens up about the initial signs of Howard's memory problems, including difficulties with directions and completing projects. Beth recounts the haunting hallucinations that plagued Howard's nights, and the le...
2023-08-0858 minDementia DiscussionsFinding Joy in the Present: Embracing Dementia's Silver Lining with Valerie RennertMy special guest this week is Valerie Rennert, who opens up about her father's journey with dementia. She shares how their family first became aware of his condition and the ways they tried to support him. Despite the challenges, Valerie emphasizes the silver lining: her father's happiness in the present moment, free from stress. Valerie fondly remembers her father, who was larger than life and incredibly intelligent. However, as the years went by, they began to notice changes in his memory and cognitive abilities. While his short-term memory is affected, he surprises everyone with his ability to e...
2023-07-1129 minDementia DiscussionsBringing Care Home: The Dos and Don'ts of Hiring a Caregiver for Your Loved One with DementiaToday I'm joined by Noma Kaz, a seasoned caregiving professional specializing in dementia care. Throughout our conversation, Noma shares her extensive knowledge and experience in the field, helping us explore the intricate dynamics of caregiving for dementia patients, the qualities to seek in an ideal caregiver, and the necessary steps to ensure their effective integration into your loved one's life. I'm confident that this episode will provide you with both comfort and practical advice for navigating the often challenging journey of dementia care.[0:04] How care is activities of daily living.[1:57] How the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly...
2023-06-1357 minDementia DiscussionsThe Power of Music, Yoga, and Seizing the Day in CaregivingFranne Golde opens up about her journey with her husband, Paul, who was diagnosed with a disease they knew very little about. Our conversation covers the challenges of finding care for Paul, the timing and benefits of hospice care, and several tools and book recommendations for all caregivers. It's a show that addresses difficult topics, but it's also an important conversation to have. It all began with an early misdiagnosis from a doctor, who called her "a neurotic Jewish housewife." Franne shares how she wrote an article about their journey and how Maria Shriver contacted her, which...
2023-05-091h 19Dementia DiscussionsBalancing Caregiving and Self-Care: Tips and Tricks for CaregiversFinding strength in a community of other caregivers, in this powerful episode, I’ll speak to Amy Kent, a member of my support group who is caring for both of her parents with dementia. Amy shares her personal story of the day-to-day struggles of caregiving, from hiring caregivers to managing their declining health. She also talks about the emotional toll of caregiving and the financial strain it can cause. But despite the difficulties, Amy has found solace in our support group, and she's now helping others who are going through similar experiences. Her story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, an...
2023-04-1132 minDementia DiscussionsI Need You To Know That I’m There, with James SavageIt’s amazing how much music comes up in these conversations where we delve into the experiences of those caring for loved ones with dementia. In this episode, James Savage shares his personal journey caring for his wife as her ability to converse fades, he finds himself feeling increasingly isolated and alone, with music providing a vital lifeline in filling the silence.James is a songwriter and has turned his lyrics towards themes of loss and memory, reflecting on his experiences caring for his wife. He is even in the process of writing a musical about a su...
2023-03-1431 minDementia DiscussionsIt’s a Family Affair: How the dynamics of aging impact the entire familyToday Barbara is joined by her friend and colleague Bunni Dybnis. A licensed marriage and family therapist, Bunni worked as an Aging Life Care Manager for years and is now a mediator, helping families of the aging and terminally ill work through bereavement, adjustments and transitions. She tells Barbara about her journey to the field of geriatrics, sparked by a course she took through UCLA’s medical school on death and suicide. Bunni realized then how death impacts the person who dies as well as their entire family unit, and teaching families to deal with loss became her mission. Tu...
2022-06-2153 minDementia DiscussionsCaregiving by default and why it's so easy to lose yourselfToday Barbara’s guest is Sandra Hunnicutt. Sandra shares her story of taking care of her husband, Don, a brilliant UCLA professor who was a “man on fire” until 2018, when he began to show signs of memory impairment and was diagnosed with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment. Sandra was Don’s sole caregiver for four years, until his condition deteriorated to the point that she needed to put him in a facility. She and Barbara talk about her experience along the way; how she “slipped into caregiving” not fully realizing it was happening. Sandra also shares valuable insights and advice, from the importan...
2022-06-1443 minDementia DiscussionsLessons in Caregiving EducationToday Barbara is pleased to welcome David Hart, a professor and clinical psychologist who specializes in dementia and caregiving. David is a faculty member in the Department of Counseling at California State University, Fullerton, and is the director of clinical services at Always Best Care Senior Services in Torrance, CA. David shares his personal story about caring for his grandmother, who was diagnosed with dementia when he was 15. He and his mother did their best, he says, but they didn’t have the right information, support, or resources.“Our hearts were always in the right place, we just didn’t know...
2022-06-0750 minDementia Discussions"Learning from other Caregivers"Nancy Tahara joins Barbara to talk about caring for her friend of 40 years. Now 81, he suffers from Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's disease, and REM sleep behavior disorder. He asked her to come take care of him a year-and-a-half ago, and she’s been his full-time caregiver ever since. Sadly, her friend’s condition is deteriorating quickly, both physically and cognitively. They just finished home health (physical therapy) but it didn’t help, so now they’ll start hospice. Nancy talks about how much she’s learned in her caregiving support groups – valuable advice, insight and support. She and Barbara also discuss...
2022-05-3135 minDementia DiscussionsA Crash-Course in Caregiving: “It’s been a rollercoaster of figuring things out”Today Barbara is joined by Evelyn Garcia, who cares for her mother who has younger-onset dementia. Evelyn was living in Virginia when she got a call from her mother’s doctor, saying she couldn’t live alone any longer. When Evelyn flew out to Los Angeles, she realized how bad things were: her mother was paranoid and forgetful, cried all the time, and wasn’t paying bills or taking care of herself. In June of 2020, Evelyn moved to Los Angeles to take care of her. Evelyn and Barbara talk about how hard it is to become a caregiver without any ba...
2022-05-2445 minDementia DiscussionsLaughter is the Best MedicineDani Klein Modisett is the founder and CEO of Laughter On Call which pairs comedians with Alzheimer’s patients. She’ll reveal the story behind the formation of this brilliant idea and explain why laughter really is the best medicine. Writer-comedian, Dani Modisett, has been performing comedy for over 20 years. She taught the art of stand-up comedy at UCLA for over a decade and has produced numerous live comedy shows all over the U.S.Find more about Dani and Laughter On Call The Washington PostNY Times & LOCNumber...
2022-05-1735 min