On this week’s program, Dr. Joe Sirven and guests discuss the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. They address prevalence, risk factors, early detection signs and preventive measures related to brain diseases. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 6.9 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s dementia.
Guests:
- Dr. Gregory Day, neurologist at Mayo Clinic specializing in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Melissa Murray, translational neuropathologist at Mayo Clinic.
Then, we focus on two caregivers who make sacrifices and adjustments to look after their loved one — a Vietnam War veteran with metastatic prostate cancer complicated by a history of strokes.
According to a report from AARP, family caregivers provide over $600 billion in unpaid care nationwide. Dr. Sirven’s guests explain the challenges and strategies they have encountered in managing the costs associated with caregiving.
Guests:
- Dr. Amy Hessler, neurologist at Universal Neurological Care.
- Letha Smithson-Hessler, retired vocational rehab counselor and health care manager.
