Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers

What could hurricanes possibly have in common with Alzheimer’s caregiving?

More than you might think.

In Episode 117 of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers, Jeff Edwards takes a timely look at the surprising parallels between preparing for a hurricane and navigating the unpredictable world of Alzheimer’s caregiving.

Hurricanes can change direction. They can intensify with little warning. They require preparation, patience, a good support system, and the understanding that some things are simply beyond our control.

For Alzheimer’s caregivers, every day can bring something different. There are good days, difficult days, unexpected changes, emergencies, exhaustion, and sometimes a feeling that you're facing the storm alone.

Just as we prepare for hurricane season before storms arrive, caregivers can prepare for difficult situations before they arise. That means having plans for medications, medical appointments, finances, respite care, and emergencies, and knowing who to call when you need help.

And later in the program, Dr. John Huffaker joins us for another edition of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s.”

This week’s listener question focuses on Leqembi: After experiencing ARIA while taking Leqembi, what options might be available moving forward?

Dr. Huffaker discusses ARIA — Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities — 

Real Talk. Real Help. Real Hope.  Hope Without Hype.

#GutPunched #Alzheimers #AlzheimersCaregiver #Caregiving #CaregiverSupport #Dementia #DementiaCaregiver #HurricanePreparedness #CaregiverPreparedness #Leqembi #ARIA #AlzheimersResearch #WhatsNewWithAlzheimers #HopeWithoutHype #RealTalkRealHelpRealHope

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There’s a lot of discussion, and sometimes confusion, surrounding amyloid plaques, tau buildup, and the newer Alzheimer’s treatments designed to target amyloid. In this episode of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, we take a closer look at some fascinating research that may help us better understand the connection.

A brain autopsy provided researchers with interesting information about what may happen after amyloid plaque is removed from the brain, including its possible effect on tau buildup and neurodegeneration. What might this tell us about Alzheimer’s disease, and about treatments such as Leqembi and Kisunla? We’ll break it down without the hype and try to make the science a little easier to understand.

Then, Dr. John Huffaker joins us for another edition of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s.” This week, he answers a listener question: What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia? While the conditions can share some symptoms, there are important differences caregivers and families should understand.

We’ll also update you on the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s and talk about ways caregivers, families, and friends can get involved.

And because caregiving is about much more than medical information, we return to the Five Tenets of GutPunched: take care of yourself, don’t try to do this alone, accept help when it’s offered, create a help signal with your loved one, and remember that caregiving, love it or hate it, is your life until it isn’t. Give it your all.

We also highlight resources available to caregivers and families, including The Dubin Center; Zacharia Frey Estate Planning & Elder Law Attorneys; and memory care services available through Lee Health.

It’s another episode built around what we believe in at GutPunched:

Real Talk. Real Help. Real Hope.

And, as always, Hope Without Hype.

#GutPunched #Alzheimers #AlzheimersDisease #Caregivers #Caregiving #Dementia #AlzheimersResearch #Amyloid #Tau #Leqembi #Kisunla #LewyBodyDementia #WalkToEndAlzheimers #HopeWithoutHype #RealTalkRealHelpRealHope

Caregiving isn't easy—but you don't have to face it alone.

In Episode 114 of GutPunched: Alzheimer's and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards shares another program focused on practical help, trusted information, and encouragement for caregivers and families navigating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

This week, Jeff talks about attending two caregiver support groups that offered valuable insights, renewed hope, and a reminder that there are people who truly understand what caregivers experience every day.

On this episode:

🧠 Do brain exercises really help?
We'll explore several activities and mental exercises that may help keep your loved one's mind active and engaged while discussing what current research says about cognitive stimulation.

📖 A special encore conversation with Martin J. Schreiber
Former Wisconsin Governor Martin J. Schreiber, author of My Two Elaines, joins us once again to share the lessons he learned caring for his wife, Elaine, through Alzheimer's disease.

Originally featured in Episode 52, this conversation continues to resonate because of Marty's honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom. As GutPunched has grown, many newer listeners have never heard this remarkable interview. Jeff explains why it changed the way he approached caregiving—and why he believes it can help you, too.

🩺 What's New with Alzheimer's
Dr. John Huffaker answers a listener's question:

What's the difference between Leqembi and Kisunla—and which treatment may be the better option?

Learn about these newer Alzheimer's medications, how they compare, and what patients and caregivers should understand before discussing treatment options with their physicians.

🚶 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's
Walk season is approaching! We'll talk about why participating in your local Walk to End Alzheimer's is an important way to honor loved ones, support research, raise awareness, and connect with others who understand the caregiving journey.

Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or simply someone wanting to learn more about Alzheimer's disease, Episode 114 offers practical ideas, expert guidance, and real encouragement.

Because here at GutPunched... it's always Real Talk. Real Help. Real Hope.

#GutPunched #Alzheimers #Caregiver #Caregiving #Dementia #BrainHealth #MemoryCare #FamilyCaregiver #HopeWithoutHype #Leqembi #Kisunla #WalkToEndAlzheimers # MartinSchreiber #MyTwoElaines #AlzheimersAwareness #RealTalkRealHelpRealHope

An Alzheimer's diagnosis can feel overwhelming for both the person receiving it and the family members who suddenly become caregivers. Questions begin immediately: What happens next? Where do we start? Who can help?

In Episode 113 of GutPunched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards shares practical guidance from the Alzheimer's Association on what families should expect after an Alzheimer's diagnosis, as well as the important first steps that can help make the journey a little less confusing.

Then Jeff sits down with Matt Field, owner of three Right at Home home care agencies in the Chicago area. Matt shares his experience working with families facing Alzheimer's and dementia, offering practical advice, encouragement, and insight into how caregivers can better navigate the challenges ahead.

Also in this episode, Dr. John Huffaker returns with another edition of "What's New with Alzheimer's," answering a listener's question:
"Why do Alzheimer's symptoms vary so much from one person to another?"

Plus, we'll remind you about the upcoming 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's and why now is the perfect time to get involved.

Real Talk. Real Help. Real Hope.

Because no caregiver should have to make this journey alone.

#GutPunchedPodcast #Alzheimers #Caregiver #Caregiving #Dementia #AlzheimersAssociation #MemoryCare #FamilyCaregiver #HomeCare #WalkToEndAlzheimers #HopeWithoutHype #RealTalkRealHelpRealHope

In Episode 111 of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards welcomes Dr. Rie Aihara from Revitalize for an eye-opening conversation about one of today's fastest-growing areas of Alzheimer's research, the gut-brain connection.

Researchers are discovering that the trillions of bacteria living inside our digestive system, known as the microbiome, may play a much bigger role in overall brain health than anyone once imagined. We'll explore how an unhealthy gut can contribute to chronic inflammation throughout the body, why inflammation has become an important focus in Alzheimer's research, and how your digestive health may influence what happens in your brain.

Does eating junk food cause Alzheimer's? No, but the foods we eat, the balance of healthy bacteria in our gut, and our overall lifestyle may all play important roles in maintaining brain health.

Dr. Aihara explains the science in an easy-to-understand way while offering practical tips that caregivers and families can begin using today to support better gut health.

Also in this episode:

• Dr. John Huffaker returns with another edition of What's New with Alzheimer's.

• We answer a listener question about managing agitation in Alzheimer's patients.

• We begin sharing information about the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's and how you can become involved in your community.

Whether you're caring for someone with Alzheimer's, interested in protecting your own brain health, or simply curious about the latest research, this conversation offers hope, practical advice, and a fascinating look at where Alzheimer's science is headed.

Hashtags

#GutPunchedPodcast #Alzheimers #Caregiver #Caregiving #GutBrainConnection #Microbiome #BrainHealth #Inflammation #Dementia #HealthyLiving #AlzheimersResearch #WalkToEndAlzheimers #HealthPodcast #FamilyCaregiver #HopeWithoutHype

In Episode 110 of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards takes a closer look at one of the most important questions facing caregivers today:

What Alzheimer's research is actually helping patients, and what may be getting oversold?

With new studies, treatments, and headlines appearing almost daily, it can be difficult to separate genuine progress from unrealistic promises. Jeff explores the concept of "Hope Without Hype," using information gathered via AI tools such as ChatGPT and Grok as a starting point to discuss current Alzheimer's research and emerging treatment options.

You'll also hear about a promising new copper-based drug that researchers believe may help remove toxic proteins and plaques from the brain by activating the brain's own immune cells, called microglia.

Plus:

• The Five Caregiver Rules that have become the foundation of GutPunched
• Why caregiver support groups remain one of the most valuable resources available
• An update from Dr. John Huffaker in "What's New With Alzheimer's"
• A listener question about Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), a rare form of Alzheimer's disease that affects visual processing and perception

As always, this episode offers practical information, encouragement, and real-world guidance for caregivers navigating one of life's most difficult journeys.

Remember: We're all in the same river, but we're not all in the same boat.

#Hashtags

#GutPunchedPodcast #Alzheimers #Caregiving #CaregiverSupport #AlzheimersResearch #HopeWithoutHype #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregivers #BrainHealth #PosteriorCorticalAtrophy #MemoryLoss #DrJohnHuffaker #AlzheimersAwareness #CaregiverLife #Podcast

In this episode, host Jeff Edwards reminds us of one of the most important caregiving lessons: you can't do this alone. Whether in-person or online, caregiver support groups can provide encouragement, education, and a sense of community during one of life's most challenging journeys.

This week, we explore exciting developments in Alzheimer's research, including a simple blood test that may help detect and stage the disease earlier than ever.

We'll also discuss common habits that may be harming your brain health without you even realizing it, and what you can do to protect your cognitive future.

Plus, Dr. John Huffaker returns for another edition of "What's New with Alzheimer's," answering a listener's question about mini-strokes and their relationship to Alzheimer's disease.

Jeff also shares updates on:

• The upcoming 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's events 

• The continuing development of the original caregiver anthem, "GutPunched: I Still Choose You" 

• And a reminder of the Five Caregiver Tenets that form the foundation of the GutPunched community. 

Whether you're caring for a spouse, parent, family member, or friend, this episode offers practical information, encouragement, and hope for the caregiving journey.

Because caregivers need support, too.

GutPunchedPodcast #Alzheimers #CaregiverSupport #Caregiving #DementiaCare #BrainHealth #MemoryLoss #AlzheimersAwareness #FamilyCaregiver #CaregiverLife #DrJohnHuffaker #WalkToEndAlzheimers #HopeForAlzheimers #CognitiveHealth #Podcast

In this episode of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards returns to the conversation with Dr. Lauren P. Brown from The Alzheimer’s Experience for Part 2 of an insightful and engaging interview that caregivers won’t want to miss.

Part 1 originally aired back in Episode 102, and yes, Jeff admits the delay getting to Part 2 is on him. Between recording interviews, editing audio, producing the podcast, and trying to make every guest sound as professional and easy to listen to as possible, the process can take hours… sometimes as many as 12 hours for a single episode.

But good conversations are worth the wait.

Jeff and Dr. Brown continue their candid discussion about the Alzheimer’s journey, caregiving realities, and emerging possibilities in treatment and support. 

One topic that may surprise listeners: Could Ultrasound Therapy become a breakthrough treatment, or even a cure, for Alzheimer’s disease? We’ll explore the growing conversation around this developing technology.

Plus, Dr. John Huffaker returns with another edition of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s,” where we look at current developments, research, and caregiver information making headlines in the Alzheimer’s world.

And we answer another listener question this time focusing on Men vs. Women and how Alzheimer’s may affect them differently.

Real talk. Real help. Real hope.

#Alzheimers #Caregiving #Healthcare #BrainHealth #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregiver #Podcast #Leadership #Aging #MentalHealth

In this episode of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards tackles one of the most important and often overlooked parts of the caregiving journey: legal planning and protection.

Jeff sits down with Elder Law Attorney Ehren Frey from Zacharia Frey PLLC for an informative and practical conversation about:
• Power of Attorney
• Medical Power of Attorney
• Trusts & Wills
• Medicaid Planning
• Protecting Assets
• Planning Ahead Before a Crisis Happens

This is the kind of information caregivers desperately need… but often struggle to find until it’s too late.

We’ll also discuss exciting new research on a nasal spray that may help restore brain function and improve cognitive health, a fascinating development that’s sparking a lot of discussion in the Alzheimer’s and brain health community.

Plus:
• “What’s New with Alzheimer’s” with Dr. John Huffaker
• A listener's question about the APOE4 gene and what it may mean for families concerned about Alzheimer’s risk

As always, GutPunched is here to bring caregivers real talk, real help, and real hope.

Hashtags

#GutPunchedPodcast #Alzheimers #CaregiverSupport #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregiver #Caregiving #ElderLaw #BrainHealth #AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaSupport #MedicaidPlanning #PowerOfAttorney #APOE4 #MemoryCare #CaregiverLife #Podcast

Episode 106 of GutPunched continues the honest conversation about caregiving, brain health, and the realities families face while navigating Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.

Host Jeff Edwards opens the show by encouraging caregivers to stay connected and involved, especially through support groups and caregiver meetings, where education, encouragement, and understanding can make a major difference.

This week’s episode covers several important topics for caregivers and families, including:

• How the BrightFocus Foundation and its partner FreeWill are helping people create or update their wills 

• New insights from the Alzheimer's Association 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report 

• A closer look at the percentage of dementia caregivers who report chronic health conditions and the serious impact caregiving stress can have on caregiver mortality and overall health 

Listeners will also hear another edition of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s” featuring Dr. John Huffaker, along with a listener question focused on Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), current studies, and available medications.

As always, Jeff shares the FIVE TENETS of caregiving that continue to guide the GutPunched community:
Take care of yourself. Don’t do this alone. Use your support system. Create a help signal. And give caregiving everything you’ve got while you’re in it.

Supported by:

On this episode of GutPunched, host Jeff Edwards opens the show with a heartfelt Memorial Day reflection, honoring the sacrifices made by service members while also recognizing the importance of slowing down, recharging, and taking care of ourselves in today’s demanding world.

This week’s episode explores several important topics affecting seniors and caregivers right now, including:

• How to help protect seniors with dementia from scams and fraud 

• The best brain foods for adults over 40 

• New research on how virgin olive oil may improve gut bacteria and support brain health 

Listeners will also hear another edition of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s” featuring Dr. John Huffaker, along with a listener Q&A segment focused on Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), one of the most misunderstood early warning signs connected to cognitive decline.

As always, Jeff shares the FIVE TENETS of caregiving that continue to guide the GutPunched community: Take care of yourself. Ask for help. Use your support system. Create a help signal. And above all, give caregiving your all while you’re in it.

Supported by:

• Neuropsychiatric Research Center 

• Heart, Body, & Mind Home Care 

• Live Younger Today

#Alzheimers #Caregivers #DementiaCare #BrainHealth #MCI #FamilyCaregiver #AgingParents #CaregiverSupport #HealthyAging #MemoryCare #PodcastLife #GutPunchedPodcast #BrainFoods #SeniorSafety #AlzheimersAwareness

This week on GutPunched Podcast, we welcome Dr. Deborah Coe Silver from the Neuropsychiatric Research Center for an informed, inspiring, and deeply important conversation about brain health, memory care, and the future of Alzheimer’s research.

The Neuropsychiatric Research Center has become a true hidden gem in our community—offering groundbreaking clinical research, cognitive testing, education, and support for individuals and families navigating memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Deborah Coe Silver shares her passion for helping patients and caregivers navigate the rapidly changing landscape of neuropsychiatric care, offering hope through today’s emerging treatments and tomorrow’s innovations.

We’ll also spotlight a new program from the Alzheimer's Association that may benefit caregivers and families, plus discuss a fascinating article exploring how high salt intake may contribute to worsening memory loss.

And of course, we’ll hear from Dr. John Huffaker in another edition of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s,” where he answers a listener's question about frontal temporal dementia and provides practical insight into one of the more challenging forms of cognitive decline.

As always, we return to the FIVE TENETS that guide everything we do here at GutPunched:

Take care of yourself

Don’t do this alone

Accept help

Create a help signal

And remember: caregiving will change your life—so give it your best

This episode is filled with education, encouragement, compassion, and real-world support for caregivers, families, and anyone concerned about brain health.

#GutPunched #Alzheimers #Caregiving #BrainHealth #MemoryLoss #DementiaCare #FrontalTemporalDementia #CaregiverSupport #NeuropsychiatricResearch #AlzheimersAwareness #PodcastLife #HealthPodcast #CaregiverJourney

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards sits down with author and caregiver advocate Glenna Hecht for one of the most engaging and practical conversations the podcast has featured to date.

What happens when dementia begins changing memories, personalities, and relationships, but a mother and daughter refuse to let it destroy their connection? The answer became a simple yet transformative relationship game that inspired Glenna’s book,” How Old Are You Today”.

Jeff admits this conversation broke one of the podcast’s usual rules: keeping episodes to around 15 minutes. Why? Because there was simply too much insight, encouragement, and usable information to leave on the cutting room floor.

Together, Jeff and Glenna explore:

• How caregivers can maintain emotional connection even as memory fades 

• Why meaningful engagement matters more than “perfect” communication 

• The real-life story behind the relationship game that changed everything 

• Practical tools families can begin using immediately 

• Encouragement for overwhelmed caregivers who feel isolated or exhausted 

• Why moments of joy, humor, and humanity still matter deeply in dementia care 

Listeners will also hear:

• Additional insights from the latest Alzheimer's Association Facts & Figures Report, focusing on prevalence and caregiving 

• Another installment of “What’s New with Alzheimer’s,” featuring Dr. John Huffaker answering listener questions. 

This episode is informative, emotional, practical, and hopeful, a reminder that connection is still possible, even when memory changes everything.

Hashtags

#GutPunchedPodcast #Alzheimers #DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaAwareness #FamilyCaregiver #Caregiving #MemoryCare #Podcast #HealthPodcast #GlennaHecht #HowOldAreYouToday #CaregiverLife #AlzheimersPodcast #DementiaSupport #SeniorCare #CaregiverCommunity #MentalHealth #HopeForCaregivers

In this episode of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, Host Jeff Edwards opens the episode by thanking listeners for the overwhelming response to the original song “GutPunched: I Still Choose You!” featured in Episode 100, a heartfelt tribute to caregivers and loved ones navigating this difficult journey.

Then, the conversation takes a turn. Do you like controversy? What about conspiracy theories? This episode explores emerging claims and debates that could ignite a serious clash in the medical and caregiving communities over Alzheimer’s treatments.

In the “What’s New With Alzheimer’s?” segment, Dr. John Huffaker returns to answer a common but often misunderstood caregiver question: Why do people with Alzheimer’s resist bathing or showering? His insights provide practical understanding and compassion for one of the many daily challenges caregivers face.

Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or simply seeking to better understand Alzheimer’s, this episode offers a powerful mix of education, empathy, and thought-provoking discussion.

#Alzheimers #Caregiving #DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #AlzheimersAwareness #MemoryLoss #Healthcare #PodcastLife #CaregiverLife #ElderCare #GutPunchedPodcast #AlzheimersResearch #DementiaSupport