Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers

In this eye-opening episode, host Jeff Edwards dives into the realities of caregiving with honesty, heart, and a touch of humor. Kicking off with reflections from a recent men’s caregiver support meeting, Jeff explores tough, but essential, topics like legal planning, death, grief, and guilt. It’s not “sexy,” but it’s crucial education for anyone on the caregiving journey.

Jeff welcomes Dr. William Justiz of Aqualane Critical Research, a deeply knowledgeable expert in Alzheimer’s care and research. Even Jeff, a seasoned caregiver and podcast host, found himself scribbling down notes. Listeners are guaranteed to walk away with new insights into Alzheimer’s that they probably didn’t know before.

🎺 Special Announcement: GutPunched is proud to welcome its first official sponsor, Heart, Body & Mind Home Care, an award-winning provider specializing in Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s care. Check them out at HBMHomeCare.com or via the link on GutPunched.com.

As always, Jeff walks through the GutPunched Tenets of Caregiving—practical, empowering rules for every caregiver:

1. Take care of yourself first.

2. You can’t do it alone, build your support network.

3. Make (and use) your help lists.

4. Create a help signal your loved one understands.

💬 "Caregiving: Love it or hate it, it will be your life until it’s not. Give it your all."

If you find value in the show, please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with anyone navigating Alzheimer’s or dementia care. Information and support are out there, and GutPunched is here to help you find both.

#AlzheimersSupport #CaregiverLife #DementiaCare #GutPunchedPodcast #CaregivingJourney #AlzheimersAwareness #MenWhoCaregive #HomeCare #ElderCare #PodcastRecommendations

In this heartfelt and candid episode of Gut Punched, host Jeff Edwards explores what he lovingly calls a “not a sexy topic”, the often unglamorous but vital conversations around Alzheimer’s disease and caregiving. With his signature blend of humor, honesty, and empathy, Jeff reminds listeners that while this subject might not be flashy, it's one that matters deeply—and sooner or later, touches all of us.

Returning to the podcast is Christine LeConte, Director of The Dubin Center, previously featured in Episode 25. One year later, Christine shares updates on how the center is progressing with its 2025 goals and what lies ahead for 2026. Spoiler alert: The Dubin Center is thriving, offering more support, resources, and community for those impacted by dementia.

The episode also dives into an article highlighting lifestyle and environmental factors that can increase your risk of developing dementia, continuing the show’s mission of educating and empowering caregivers and families with actionable insight.

Jeff reiterates the core tenets of caregiving that define the GutPunched ethos:

1. Care for yourself first; you can’t pour from an empty cup.

2. Don’t go it alone, seek help, community, and support.

3. Make & use support lists, know who’s offered help and what you need done.

4. Create a help signal, a shared cue to ensure your loved one feels safe with outside caregivers.

As always, Jeff brings real talk for real people navigating the emotional rollercoaster of Alzheimer’s and caregiving, offering not just resources, but hope, humor, and heart.

🔔 Listen, Subscribe & Share

If this episode resonates with you or someone you know, subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Share this podcast with caregivers, families, and friends, because while caregiving may not be “sexy,” it’s life-changing, and no one should do it alone.

In this heartfelt and unflinchingly honest episode, host Jeff Edwards shares the gut-wrenching story of what happened when his wife became one of the rare 1% of Alzheimer’s patients who suffer serious side effects from an amyloid-clearing drug. And no—being in the 1% isn’t always the jackpot you’d hope for (though Jeff jokes maybe it’s time to buy a Powerball ticket).

From oatmeal explosions in the kitchen to an ER visit that could’ve taken a fatal turn, Jeff walks us through the day everything changed. It’s a crash course in the scary, unpredictable, and often misunderstood territory of anti-amyloid therapies. With warmth, raw vulnerability, and a touch of humor, he offers lessons every caregiver should hear—like why carrying a certain card could save your loved one’s life, and how "thinking on the fly" becomes part of the caregiver job description.

Whether you're knee-deep in caregiving or just beginning the journey, this episode serves up wisdom, hope, and a reminder that you're not alone. And above all, Jeff reminds us: the learning never stops, especially when your partner’s brain decides to throw a plot twist.

Welcome to September—World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Let’s talk, learn, and lift each other up.

As hurricane season hits, host Jeff Edwards brings in a special guest to offer essential safety tips for caregivers—and anyone preparing for the unpredictable storms ahead. In this episode, Jeff sits down with retired Weather Service Meteorologist, David Gilhousen, to discuss what caregivers should know in the event of a hurricane. With practical advice and years of meteorological expertise, David shares what to expect, how to prepare, and how caregivers can protect their loved ones during storm season.

Additionally, Jeff revisits key caregiver strategies, including the importance of self-care, building a support network, and creating helpful lists to stay organized. Tune in for some real-world tips on how to manage caregiving during an emergency, and get a refresher on the "rules" Jeff follows at GutPunched to stay grounded in tough times.

This episode is a perfect balance of preparedness, care, and friendship—as David has been Jeff’s go-to source for accurate weather intel for years, and now he’s here to share it with all of us. 

Upcoming in our next episode: 

We’ll be talking about the things that can be learned from my wife’s recent severe reaction to an Alzheimer’s drug. If you are a Caregiver, we hope it will be as informative as it was an education for me.

Don’t miss it!

In this heartfelt episode of Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards invites you into a conversation that shines light on the powerful, yet often overwhelming, journey of caregiving. Caregiving, especially for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, is one of the most important roles anyone can undertake. Today, Jeff is joined by guest George Cecere, who opens up about his own personal experience, sharing both the challenges and the meaningful moments that come with caring for a loved one.

As always, GUTPUNCHED follows a simple, compassionate set of principles to help guide caregivers through the emotional and practical aspects of their journey. In this episode, Jeff emphasizes the following essential tenets:

1. Take care of yourself: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care is crucial because if something happens to you, your loved one is left without support.

2. You don’t have to do this alone: Lean on your community. Whether it’s a caregiver support group, family, or close friends, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

3. Get organized: Make lists of people who have offered to help, and create a list of tasks that are overwhelming for you to handle on your own. Take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help to get things done.

4. Create a “Help Signal”: Establish a simple phrase or cue that lets your loved one know it’s okay to accept help. This can ease anxiety and make caregiving moments more comfortable for both of you.

5. Caregiving: Love it or hate it, it’s your life until it’s not: Pour your heart into it because caregiving, while challenging, brings profound moments of love and connection.

This episode is a warm reminder that while caregiving can sometimes feel like an isolating experience, you are not alone. There are resources, support, and hope to be found, and GUTPUNCHED is here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review. And, if you know someone who might need a little extra support in their caregiving journey, share this podcast with them. There’s help and hope out there; all you need is to know where to find it, and that’s exactly what we’re here to help with.

Welcome to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, Episode 65! 

Ever wondered what happens when Alzheimer’s, an author, a poet, dementia, a musician, and a nurse all walk into a room together? No, it’s not the setup for a bad joke—it’s the perfect mix for today’s podcast!

Our guest today is Mr. Bob Shea from Elder Entertainment, a creative dynamo with a heart for Alzheimer's awareness. Bob, who wears many hats (author, poet, musician, nurse), joins host Jeff Edwards to share his unique perspective on Alzheimer's care and the healing power of creativity. 

Plus, don’t miss the latest Alzheimer’s research! We wrap up with an article about a promising Diabetes Blood Test that could predict Alzheimer’s decline. Talk about medical breakthroughs Science is awesome and sometimes, even a little mind-blowing.

As always, we start by revisiting the GutPunched Tenets—the rules we live by, because let’s face it, caregiving can be tough, and you’ve gotta be on top of your game to survive it:

1. Take care of yourself—if you break down, who’s there for your loved one?

2. You can’t do this alone—find a good support network.

3. Make a list of people who’ve offered help. Write down what needs doing and go through the list until it’s all handled.

4. Create a “help signal”—something that tells your loved one it's okay to get the help they need.

Then we get a little poetic with a reading from Bob’s book, Peekaboo: I See Miracles—Musings of Musical Memories and Alzheimer’s Disease. A hauntingly beautiful first stanza of his poem “In Here” sets the stage for a conversation that’s as deep as it is creative.

After the interview, Jeff and Bob share their thoughts on the magic that happens when creativity meets caregiving, a reminder that even in the toughest times, there’s always room for something meaningful and maybe even a little joyful.

Whether you’re a caregiver or just curious, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and a touch of humor. So grab your coffee (or your harmonica) and tune in!

In this episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards serves up some much-needed wisdom—and a side of humor—as he navigates the challenges caregivers face during long, hot summers with no holiday respite in sight. Can’t escape the heat, but you can take a moment to laugh and reflect with Jeff’s signature wit.

As always, Jeff goes over the "Tennents" (yes, he means tenets) that guide this podcast, offering light yet essential advice for anyone in the caregiving trenches:

1.  of your loved one?

2. You can’t do it alone—find support through groups, friends, and family.

3. Make a list—and use it! A list of people willing to help + tasks that need doing = one less stress for you.

4. Create a help signal—find a cue or phrase that lets your loved one know it's okay to accept help.

In this episode, Jeff also sits down with Cynthia Perthuis, a Senior Care expert from Senior Care Authority, New York & Florida. Together, they tackle the big, elephant-sized decision of moving your loved one into an assisted living community. Cynthia breaks it down for us: the where, the when, and most importantly, the how. Moving someone to a new care facility can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and approach, it’s more manageable than it seems.

So, grab your list, find your support, and tune in for some much-needed tips on how to eat that metaphorical elephant—one bite at a time.

It’s insightful. It’s practical. And yes, it’s still GutPunched, so you know we’re keeping it light along the way!

#CaregiverLife #Alzheimers #SeniorCare #GutPunchedPodcast #ElderCare #SelfCare #AlzheimersSupport

🎧 🎧 New episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers! 🧠✨

 On this week’s episode #63, Host Jeff Edwards talks about a Breakthrough: Brain Sugar Discovery that could change Alzheimer’s! Plus, tips on Reducing Inflammation to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s.

And of course, the 4 tenets for Caregivers:

1. Take care of YOU

2. Ask for help (you can’t do it alone!)

3. Make a list and get stuff DONE

4. Create a “Help Signal” for your loved one

Next week, Jeff chats with Cynthia Purthuis from Senior Care Authority—don’t miss it!

Listen now! 🎧

#Alzheimers #Caregiving #BrainHealth #SelfCare #GutPunchedPodcast

This week, Jeff explores the often-blurry line between the beginning and early middle stages of Alzheimer’s—and what that means for you, the caregiver.

🎙️ GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers – Ep. 62
🧠 Beginning Stages vs. Early Middle Stages of Alzheimer’s
👤 Host: Jeff Edwards | 🎧 Guest: Morgan Van Dyke

💬 Joined by fan-favorite guest Morgan Van Dyke (Ep. 51), they break down:
✔️ Key similarities & differences between the stages
✔️ Subtle changes in behavior & care needs
✔️ Real-world strategies to adapt your caregiving

Plus, a reminder of our four caregiver tenets:
1️⃣ Take care of yourself
2️⃣ Don’t go it alone – ask for help
3️⃣ Use your support lists
4️⃣ Create a “Help Signal” 🆘

💡 This episode is filled with honesty, hope, and small victories—including a positive update from Jeff’s Men’s Caregivers Group 🙌

🎆 As we head into July 4th, a reminder: caregiving doesn’t take holidays. Even 10 minutes of peace is a win.

🎧 Listen now—your caregiver's heart will thank you.
#Alzheimers #CaregiverSupport #GutPunchedPodcast #DementiaCare #HopeInTheHard

In this heartfelt and eye-opening 60th episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards reflects on milestones, both personal and universal. It’s Father’s Day weekend, June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and we’ve hit 60 episodes of this powerful journey.

Jeff kicks things off with a sobering yet timely question: Is there a connection between fathers who have Alzheimer’s and your own risk of developing it? Then Jeff sets the stage for an incredibly meaningful and sincere conversation with Dr. Ed Shaw about Keeping Love Alive As Memories Fade.

Dr. Shaw is not only a former caregiver but also a four-time author, national speaker, part-time counselor, and leader of caregiver support groups. Most importantly, he speaks from experience, with clarity, compassion, and purpose. In this episode, he shares insights from his book, Keeping Love Alive as Memories Fade, introducing the Five Love Languages and how they can be adapted to deepen connection with loved ones who are living with dementia.

This interview is more than informational; it’s deeply moving. Dr. Shaw’s personal stories and professional wisdom give caregivers a new lens to see their roles, and their relationships, with renewed empathy and hope.

As always, Jeff reminds us of the four grounding rules that GutPunched listeners have come to rely on:

• Take care of yourself.

• You can't do this alone—get help.

• Make a list, and use it.

• Create a help signal for your loved one.

This isn’t just another podcast episode—it’s a reminder of why caregiving matters, and how love, even in the face of memory loss, can still be nurtured and expressed.

On this Memorial Day weekend edition of GUTPUNCHED: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards brings you powerful updates and essential truths for those navigating the realities of Alzheimer’s disease. From scientific advances to personal resilience, this episode dives into critical topics every caregiver and family member should know.

Jeff covers groundbreaking news: the FDA has approved the first-ever blood test to detect Alzheimer’s — a potential game changer for early diagnosis and intervention. We also explore recent research linking prolonged sitting to brain shrinkage and how zinc supplements may offer hope in slowing Alzheimer’s progression.

Plus, we break down key insights from the Alzheimer’s Association’s newly released 2025 Facts and Figures report — offering a clearer view of the growing impact of this disease on families and our healthcare system.

As always, Jeff reminds us of the “Caregiver’s Rules” — hard-won lessons that help you survive the emotional and physical strain of caregiving:

• Prioritize your own well-being,

• Don’t isolate yourself,

• Use your network and ask for help,

• And create a simple, effective way for your loved one to signal when they’re ready to accept assistance.

Whether you’re deep in the trenches of caregiving or just beginning the journey, this episode is packed with real talk, useful strategies, and the latest Alzheimer’s science to keep you informed and supported.

Listen in, lean on us, and don’t forget: you’re not alone.

New Episode is available on The Podcast Playground, PODBEAN, and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check GUTPUNCHED.COM  for the latest information

The new episode is available on The Podcast Playground and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check GUTPUNCHED.COM  for the latest information

GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS Episode 56 OR Just the Facts, Ma'am, Just the Facts"

In this episode, host Jeff Edwards delves into the latest statistical insights from the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2025 “Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures” report. The discussion focuses on the escalating prevalence of Alzheimer's disease, its impact on the aging population, and the profound effects on caregivers.

Key Topics Covered: Prevalence and Mortality: Economic Impact: Caregiver Challenges, Demographic Disparities: 

In this moving and deeply personal episode of GutPunched, host Jeff Edwards brings us into the heart of caregiving with former Wisconsin Governor Martin J. Schreiber, who lovingly cared for his wife Elaine for nearly two decades following her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Their story, captured in his powerful memoir My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver, is part love story, part survival guide — and wholly unforgettable.

Jeff opens the episode with warmth and honesty, offering listeners timely reflections and new caregiver "rules" — practical, compassionate tools for navigating the emotional and logistical weight of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. Rule #4 is especially poignant: Create a Help Signal, a gentle yet empowering strategy to give those with memory loss a sense of safety and choice when receiving care.

Then, Marty shares the raw, often painful journey of loving both versions of his wife — the woman he married, and the woman Alzheimer’s slowly reshaped. With grace, humor, and remarkable humility, he reflects on the heartbreak of being forgotten and the quiet joys that still managed to bloom through the fog of the disease. At 85, Marty doesn’t just talk about caregiving — he lived it, and he shares hard-won wisdom that challenges, heals, and uplifts.

Jeff doesn't hold back when he says this conversation touched him in ways few others have. It’s more than a podcast episode — it’s a reminder that even amid loss, there can be meaning, connection, and yes… even joy.

Welcome back to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, where we don’t sugarcoat the challenges of caregiving—but we do walk through them together.

In this episode, host Jeff Edwards starts with a check-in: Are you remembering the caregiver rules? Are you making those lists, seeking support, and taking care of you? Because, as always, Rule #1 stands strong—you can’t care for someone else if you’re not caring for yourself first.

Whether you’ve been listening from the beginning or just joining in, Jeff revisits the three simple but vital guidelines that keep caregivers grounded, connected, and sane:

1. Take care of yourself—because your well-being is essential to your loved one’s.

2. Don’t go it alone—support groups, friends, and family are your lifeline.

3. Make a list—and use it. You’ll be surprised what happens when you ask for help.

Then we move into something hopeful: an exploration of how stem cell treatment may offer new promise in improving Alzheimer’s symptoms. It’s a developing field—but one that’s worth paying attention to.

We also hear from Morgan Van Dyke of Assisting Hands, who shares a wealth of practical caregiving insights—especially helpful for those navigating the early stages of Alzheimer’s. From small adjustments to bigger-picture planning, Morgan’s advice is something every caregiver will want to jot down.

So take a breath. Grab something to write with. And let’s dive in—because information is power, and you don’t have to face this journey alone.

Available on GUTPUNCHED.COM, The Podcast Playground, and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe!

#GUTPUNCHED #ALZHEIMERS #DEMENTIA #CAREGIVERS