Dementia Matters

As 2025 comes to an end, host Dr. Nathaniel Chin discusses the importance of gratitude for brain health and shares what he’s grateful for from this past year. Show Notes Complete the Dementia Matters Feedback Survey to let us know what our show is doing well and how we can improve in the New Year! The survey will be open until January 14th, 2026 and is estimated to take about 5 minutes to complete. Read the study Dr. Chin mentions at 0:57, “Association between gratitude, the brain and cognitive function in older adults: Results from the NEIGE study,” on the ScienceDirect website. Connect with us Find transcripts and more at our website. Email Dementia Matters: dementiamatters@medicine.wisc.edu Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Subscribe to the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s e-newsletter. Enjoy Dementia Matters? Consider making a gift to the Dementia Matters fund through the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer’s. All donations go toward outreach and production.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) like concussions are not uncommon, especially in children and older adults. These injuries can have both short-term and lasting effects on the brain, but what about their impact on cognitive function? Dr. Deling He of UW–Madison’s Cognitive-Communication in Aging and Neurogenic Disorders Laboratory (CCANDL) lab joins the podcast to discuss her research on the connections between TBI, speech pathology and cognition and what her study findings mean for people with a history of TBI. Guest: Deling He, PhD, postdoctoral research associate, Cognitive-Communication in Aging and Neurogenic Disorders Laboratory, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, UW–Madison Show Notes Read the study from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), “Traumatic Brain Injury Strikes 1 in 8 Older Americans,” mentioned by Dr. Chin at 0:30 on the UCSF website. Learn more about Dr. He’s study in the article, “TBI linked to long-term cognitive decline in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease,”

When memory, thinking or communication changes begin, knowing where to turn for support can make all the difference. In this episode, we explore how two key health care specialties can help individuals and families meet those challenges with confidence. Sarah Gunderson, an occupational therapist, and Kari Esser, a speech-language pathologist, draw from their work supporting people experiencing a wide range of neurological conditions to walk us through the foundations of their specialties and their unique roles in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia care. Sarah and Kari also provide a preview of their upcoming talk, “Partnering with Your Healthcare Team,” as part of the 2025 Healthy Living with MCI education program. Guests: Sarah Gunderson, OT, occupational therapist, UW Health, Kari Esser, MS, CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist, UW Health Show Notes Register and learn more about the upcoming Healthy Living with MCI event featuring Dr. Chin, Sarah Gunderson and Kari Esser, happening on December 12,

What do COVID-19 brain fog and ophthalmology have to do with Alzheimer’s disease? There may be more connections than one might think. Dr. Sean Miller is one of the scientists behind a recent study that used retinal tissue to investigate the links between COVID-19 infections and the build-up of amyloid and other indicators of Alzheimer’s disease in the central nervous system. Dr. Miller joins the podcast to discuss his research and its implications for COVID and dementia diagnosis and treatments in the future. Guest: Sean Miller, PhD, research scientist, department of ophthalmology and visual science, Yale School of Medicine, co-investigator, Logan Lab, Endicott College  Show Notes Read Dr. Miller’s study, “SARS-CoV-2 induces Alzheimer’s disease–related amyloid-β pathology in ex vivo human retinal explants and retinal organoids,” on the journal Science’s website. Learn more about Dr. Miller at his profile on the Yale School of Medicine website. Read “Retinal pathological features and proteome signatures of Alz

Caring for someone living with dementia can be both deeply meaningful and incredibly challenging. Finding effective ways to connect, communicate and provide support often requires shifting how we see and respond to changes in the brain. In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, renowned dementia care specialist Teepa Snow joins the podcast to share her insights on improving life with dementia through empathy and understanding. As the founder of Positive Approach to Care (PAC), Teepa has developed the Snow Approach, a set of practical and compassionate techniques designed to empower care partners. She discusses the philosophy behind her methods, the importance of recognizing retained abilities and strategies that can make daily interactions more positive and meaningful for both care partners and those living with dementia. Guest: Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, dementia care specialist, educator, owner, trainer, Positive Approach LLC, co-Founder & chair, Snow Approach Foundation Show Notes This episode w

Grief is a complex topic for people with dementia, their loved ones, caregivers and doctors to navigate. Dr. Erica Srinivasan, an expert on the psychology behind grief, joins the podcast to discuss the different kinds of grief people can experience and share strategies and resources for addressing the grief associated with dementia. Guest: Erica Srinivasan, PhD, associate professor of psychology, University of Wisconsin–La Crosse (UWL), director, Center for Grief and Death Education, lead instructor, Grief Support Specialist Certificate, UW–Madison Continuing Education Show Notes Register for Dr. Srinivasan’s Grief Support Specialist Certificate course at the UW–Madison Continuing Education website. Register for Dr. Srinivasan’s Dementia Support Specialist online courses course at the UW-La Crosse Extended Learning website. Read more about Dr. Srinivasan at her profile on the UW–La Crosse website. Listen to our episode “Shining Light on Younger-Onset Dementia with Lorenzo’s House,” mentioned by Dr. Chin at 14

Clinical trials are essential for improving the lives of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. With so many trials out there, it can be difficult for someone who’s interested in participating in research to know where to start. Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford joins the podcast to discuss the ins and outs of clinical trials and the state of Alzheimer’s treatments today, as well as share some highlights from his presentation at the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center’s (NACC) 2025 Spring ADRC Meeting. Guest: Jonathan Graff-Radford, MD, behavioral neurologist, associate professor, vice chair, Mayo Clinic Department of Neurology, co-investigator, Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center Show Notes Read more about Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford at his profile on Mayo Clinic’s website. Listen to part one and part two of our series on preclinical Alzheimer’s disease and the AHEAD study with Dr. Reisa Sperling, mentioned at 19:53, on our website. Learn more about the AHEAD study on their

Microplastics are a growing concern in the field of environmental health, but their impact on the brain is only beginning to be understood. Joining the podcast to share the latest research on these tiny particles, which have been found in the brain and other parts of the body, is Dr. Matthew Campen, a leading researcher in the field whose work is helping to uncover how environmental exposures like the accumulation of microplastics could affect neurological health, dementia risk and more. Guest: Matthew Campen, PhD, MSPH, director, New Mexico Center for Metals in Biology and Medicine, director, University of New Mexico Clinical and Translational Sciences Center KL2 Mentored Career Development Program, deputy director, Training Core director, UNM Metal Exposure and Toxicity Assessment on Tribal Lands in the Southwest (UNM METALS) Superfund Research Program Center, professor, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center Show Notes Learn more about Dr. Campen and his research at his profile on the University o

As an individual develops dementia, they may need support in many areas of their lives. One of these areas is decision-making, particularly regarding health care decisions, but how can someone or their loved one determine if they need support with decision-making? To answer these questions, Dr. Victoria Williams joins to discuss capacity and capacity testing. She dives into the different kinds of decision-making abilities that can be assessed, the signs that one may need an assessment and more, as well as shares a preview of her upcoming Healthy Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) program, “Cognitive Testing and Brain Imaging Explained.” Guest: Victoria Williams, PhD, neuropsychologist, UW Health, assistant professor, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Show Notes Register and learn more about Dr. Williams’ upcoming Healthy Living with MCI event, happening on September 12, 2025, and future programs on our website. Learn more about Dr. Williams at her bi

Receiving a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia can be an emotional and challenging experience. How can meditative practices support those living with MCI? Buddhist chaplain Sharon Lukert wrote her book, Until My Memory Fails Me, with the goal of sharing mindfulness and spiritual practices that have helped her since being diagnosed with MCI in 2021. She joins the podcast to share how her spirituality has impacted her journey to a diagnosis as well as strategies on navigating emotional struggles and building community for those living with MCI. Guest: Sharon Lukert, author, Buddhist chaplain Show Notes Learn more about Sharon Lukert and her book, Until My Memory Fails Me, on her website. Register for the Wisconsin ADRC’s Healthy Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment education series on our website. Learn about the Wisconsin ADRC’s involvement in the development of new blood tests, mentioned by Mrs. Lukert at 12:50, on our website. Interested in hearing more about what it’s like being invol

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is one of the most common causes of dementia in individuals under the age of 60, yet it remains lesser known and often misunderstood. From the early symptoms to the challenges of diagnosis and treatment, FTLD presents unique hurdles for clinicians, researchers and families alike. Joining the podcast to discuss this complex disease is Dr. Brad Boeve, principal investigator of the ALLFTD study, a major national research effort aimed at identifying biomarkers and clinical tools to improve early detection of FTLD and prepare for future treatment trials.  Guest: Brad Boeve, MD, neurologist, Department of Neurology and Center for Sleep Medicine, professor of neurology, Division of Behavioral Neurology, Mayo Clinic, co-director, Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, principal investigator, ARTFL-LEFFTDS Longitudinal Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (ALLFTD) research study Show Notes Are you a clinician interested in receiving continuing education (CE) credits for

Smartphones and technology are ubiquitous in nearly every aspect of our lives, but is technology helping or hurting us when it comes to memory and cognition? Dr. Jared Benge, neuropsychologist and associate professor from the University of Texas at Austin, joins the podcast to discuss his research into how technology and smartphone use impacts the brain, how digital technology can be used to help individuals with cognitive impairment and what his findings mean for the future. Guest: Jared Benge, PhD, ABPP, clinical neuropsychologist, Comprehensive Memory Center, UT Health Austin, associate professor, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin   Show Notes Read Dr. Benge’s article, “A meta-analysis of technology use and cognitive aging,” on the journal Nature’s website. Learn more about Dr. Benge at his profile on UT Health Austin’s website. Read Dr. Benge’s study on the use of smartphone technology to improve prospective memory functioning at the Journal of American Geriatrics Society. Dementia Matter

What is the current impact of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias on the United States? To best understand its significance in 2025, we can turn to the Alzheimer’s Association’s Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, a comprehensive resource that highlights the effect of Alzheimer’s on individuals, care partners, health care professionals and more. Dr. Heather Snyder from the Alzheimer’s Association joins the podcast to discuss key trends and findings from this year’s report, including insights from their special report on Americans’ attitudes toward early detection and new monoclonal antibody treatments. Guest: Heather Snyder, PhD, senior vice president, medical & scientific relations, Alzheimer’s Association Show Notes Read the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report and special report from the Alzheimer’s Association on their website. Download and print the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures infographic on their website. Read about Dr. Snyder on her profile on the Alzheim

How much does it cost to live with dementia in the United States? The hidden costs are often overlooked, but these numbers and trends are important to understand in order to inform the public and effectively allocate resources. Dr. Julie Zissimopoulos leads The United States Cost of Dementia Project, where they recently published a report on the total cost of dementia in 2025. Dr. Zissimopoulos joins the podcast to discuss the report’s findings and analyze what this means for patients and families, as well as for public policy, in the future. Guest: Julie Zissimopoulos, PhD, professor, Sol Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California (USC), co-lead, United States Cost of Dementia Project, co-director, Aging and Cognition Research Program, USC Schaeffer Center, director, Alzheimer’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease Related Dementias Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (USC AD/ADRDRCMAR), Center for Advancing Sociodemographic and Economic Study of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Demen

Everyone has habits. Some are beneficial for brain health while others are less so, but it turns out that habits as simple as brushing your teeth at the same time each morning can help your brain adapt to changes from cognitive impairment. Dr. Gordon Giles joins the podcast to dive into the fascinating world of neurological rehabilitation and how building small, consistent habits can rewire the brain and support healthy lifestyle choices. He also gives a sneak peek into his upcoming talk for the Healthy Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) program titled “Unlocking the Power of Habits, Routines and Strategies.” Guest: Gordon Giles, PhD, OTR/L FAOTA, professor emeritus, Samuel Merritt University Show Notes Learn more about Dr. Giles at his profile on the Samuel Merritt University website. Register and learn more about Dr. Giles’ upcoming Healthy Living with MCI event, happening on June 20, 2025, and future programs on our website. Connect with us Find transcripts and more at our website. Email Dementia

It’s estimated that 4.3 million older adults across the United States live alone with cognitive impairment. How do these individuals navigate the challenges and concerns that arise due to these memory and thinking changes, and what recommendations are there to support them as they continue living independently? Dr. Elena Portacolone joins Dementia Matters to discuss her research focused on identifying these challenges and developing equitable policies and programs for older adults living alone with cognitive impairment in the United States and worldwide. Guest: Elena Portacolone, PhD, MBA, MPH, principal investigator, Living Alone with Cognitive Impairment Project, professor of sociology, Institute for Health & Aging, Pepper Center Scholar, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Show Notes Read more about Dr. Portacolone and her work at her profile on UCSF’s website. Learn more about UCSF’s Living Alone with Cognitive Impairment project, led by Dr. Portacolone, on th

How important is one’s family history when determining Alzheimer’s risk? Returning guests Drs. Jessica Langbaum and Sterling Johnson discuss the latest research on family history and genetic risk factors and share their perspectives on the topic, specifically focusing on the role of the APOE gene as a risk factor. Guests: Sterling Johnson, PhD, leader, Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP), associate director, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, associate director, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute, lead principal investigator, ADRC Consortium for Clarity in ADRD Research Through Imaging (CLARiTI), Jean R. Finley Professor of Geriatrics and Dementia, UW School of Medicine and Public Health, and Jessica Langbaum, PhD, senior director of research strategy, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, overseer, Observational Research Program, Clinical Trials Program, Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative, director, Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry, director, Arizona Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center Show N

Having a relative or loved one receive a dementia diagnosis can be challenging for families, especially for families with children. How can parents, guardians and other adults explain these complex memory and thinking changes to children in a way they’ll understand? One possible way – children’s books. Dr. Tomás León joins the podcast to discuss his collection of children’s books focused on different kinds of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia and vascular dementia. He discusses his inspiration for the four stories, the writing and translation process, and the importance of helping children understand what’s happening to their loved ones, as well as shares advice on how to address these difficult conversations. Guest: Tomás León, MD, psychiatrist, Memory and Neuropsychiatry Clinic, Hospital del Salvador, Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health, Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI) Show Notes Read more about Dr. León’s children’s books and download copies of

The Research Education Component (REC) focuses on educating, mentoring and training the next generation of researchers at the over 30 Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers (ADRCs) across the United States, offering a range of fellowships, educational activities and events like the annual Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) Research Day. In honor of this year’s ADRD Research Day, early career researchers Isa Hayde and Dr. Yang Yeh join the podcast to discuss how REC has impacted their research journeys, as well as share a preview of their lightning presentations. Guests: Isa Hayde, undergraduate student, Clark Lab, and Yang Yeh, PhD, postdoctoral fellow, Lamming Lab Show Notes Learn more about REC and the Wisconsin ADRC’s Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Research Day on our website. Listen to the podcast with Drs. Barb Bendlin and Tyler Ulland, “Gut Feelings: The Links Between Gut Health and Alzheimer’s Disease,” mentioned by Dr. Chin at 5:30, on our website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and al

Early detection is a top priority in the field of Alzheimer’s research, and one indicator of Alzheimer’s disease is the buildup of tau in the brain. What is tau, though? How can we detect this protein, and what can it tell us about a person’s symptoms or disease progression? Dr. Gil Rabinovici, a leader in the field of brain imaging, joins Dementia Matters this week for an in-depth discussion on the role of tau PET scans in Alzheimer’s disease detection, research and clinical care. Guest: Gil Rabinovici, MD, professor, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), director, UCSF Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, study chair, Imaging Dementia-Evidence for Amyloid Scanning (IDEAS) and New IDEAS studies, co-principal investigator, Alzheimer’s Network for Treatment and Diagnostics (ALZ-NET), Longitudinal Evaluation of Alzheimer’s Disease Study (LEADS) Show Notes Are you a clinician interested in receiving continuing education (CE) credits for listening to this episode? Find credit des