"Words From the Horse's Mouth"

What does dignity really feel like for someone living with Alzheimer’s? In this episode, Janna and Larry share real-life moments where dignity can either be preserved—or unintentionally taken away. From being interrupted or rushed, to the power of eye contact and inclusion, this conversation offers practical, compassionate ways to protect the person behind the disease.

In this deeply personal and practical episode, we explore how dignity is not something Alzheimer’s can take—it’s something that must be actively protected. As memory fades and communication becomes more difficult, the way we respond becomes everything.

This episode walks through real-life situations where dignity can quietly slip away—and how small shifts in language, tone, and approach can restore it. Whether you're a spouse, family member, or support person, or you yourself have the disease, you’ll come away with a clearer understanding of how to go beyond just managing situation.

Key Takeaways

• Dignity is inherent and not dependent on memory

• Small habits like interrupting can reduce dignity

• Eye contact and acknowledgment restore connection

• Inclusion in tasks builds purpose

• People with Alzheimer’s are still aware

Resources

Alzheimer’s Association – Communication Tips

Teepa Snow

UCLA Dementia Care

National Institute on Aging

Family Caregiver Alliance

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

EPISODE 19 SHOW NOTES

“Acceptance & Adjustments”

Living with Alzheimer’s means facing changes you didn’t choose — and figuring out how to keep living well anyway. In this episode, Janna and Larry talk honestly (and with humor) about what it feels like to accept what’s changing and how small adjustments can make daily life calmer, safer, and more joyful.

They explore how things like recognizing faces, finding words, moving through the house, or staying engaged can require new strategies — and how companionship, music, routine, and creativity can make a big difference without taking away dignity.

If you’re living with Alzheimer’s, loving someone with it, or both, this episode offers a realistic but hopeful look at how acceptance and adaptation can protect the things that matter most.

You’ll hear about:

·       what acceptance feels like from the inside

·       why adjustments aren’t surrender — they’re tools

·       how companionship and support help keep purpose alive

·       the surprising value of music, reading, and humor

·       and what it means to “decide to thrive” even as the brain changes

Helpful Resources 

Alzheimer’s Association — “I Have Alzheimer’s: Resources for Support”

This main page is written for people living with Alzheimer’s. It gathers simple, practical information on what to expect, how to live well, and where to find support without drowning you in medical language. 

Alzheimer’s Association — Tips for Daily Life

Offers down-to-earth ideas to make everyday life a bit easier when you’re living with memory and thinking changes — things you can try at home, at your own pace. 

Alzheimer’s Association — Taking Care of Yourself

Focuses on the person with Alzheimer’s: your health, stress, rest, and emotional well-being, with suggestions for staying as strong and independent as possible.

Alzheimer’s Society (UK) — Coping with Memory Loss

A friendly guide for people who are noticing memory problems, with practical ideas for routines, organizing things at home, and handling the feelings that come with it.

Forward With Dementia — Getting Support & Adjusting to a Diagnosis

Written in plain language for people with dementia, this page talks about the emotional side of getting the diagnosis and how support, counseling, and peer groups can help you adjust.

“Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up — it means making room for what’s still possible.”

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Alzheimer’s Thriver™ 

In this episode, Janna and Larry share recent changes in their Alzheimer’s journey — from slower mornings and occasional disorientation to accepting help with more peace and humor. They discuss how companionship, gentle support, post-surgery recovery, and small daily moments (like seeing children or laughing together) all shape their ongoing commitment to thrive rather than feel defeated. The episode encourages both patients and care partners to embrace patience, teamwork, and gratitude as the condition progresses.

•       Mornings now take longer, and Janna uses calm self-encouragement to get oriented.
•       Accepting help has become easier and strengthens their partnership.       Companions are now helping with flute practice — and learning flute themselves.
•       A recent surgery and medications temporarily affected mobility and cognition.
•       Palliative care is being introduced for additional support.       Humor, shared routines, and noticing small joys help them continue thriving.

Helpful References & Studies

1.     Sleep problems & morning confusion – NIA ⁠https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sleep/managing-sleep-problems-alzheimers-disease⁠

2.     Companionship & meaningful activities – Alzheimer’s Society ⁠https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/activities-dementia⁠

3.     Dementia risk after surgery (peer-reviewed, Lancet EClinicalMedicine)⁠https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370%2822%2900457-6/fulltext

4.     Sleep & behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s – Alzheimer’s Association ⁠https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/for-sleep-changes⁠ 

5.     Hospice & palliative care – NIA ⁠https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hospice-and-palliative-care

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

“Each New Day, A New Page: Embracing Optimism While Living with Alzheimer’s”

📝 Show Notes for Episode 17: Embracing Inspiration and Optimism

In this heartfelt episode, Janna, an Alzheimer's thriver, and her husband Larry share an intimate anniversary conversation that turns into something truly profound. Through reflections on memory, environment, and emotional overwhelm, Janna reveals a powerful epiphany she received in a dream: that each new day is a page in the continuing story of her life.

No longer focused on what she has lost, Janna is choosing to embrace what she still can do—with joy, humor, and clarity. The episode touches on:
- How sound and sensory overload affect Alzheimer's communication
- A breakthrough with nighttime muscle cramps (thanks to a new salt supplement!)
- The creative process of reframing daily life as an evolving story
- The difference between passive acceptance and active embracing of one’s reality
- Living with intention, purpose, and spiritual awareness in Alzheimer’s

This episode is a celebration of resilience, love, and the human spirit’s ability to reframe challenge into creativity.

🔗 Resources & Related Studies

- Sense of Purpose & Lower Dementia Risk – NIH/PMC: 

- Purpose and Brain Health – Rush University: 

- Fewer Behavioral Symptoms with Greater Life Purpose – Taylor & Francis: 

- Positive Psychology in Cognitive Decline

- Narrative Identity & Life Story Tools – Springer:

- Reminiscence Therapy in Dementia – PMC Review: 

- Daily Meaningful Activities for Alzheimer’s – Dementia UK: 

- Art & Identity – “I Remember Better When I Paint” Documentary: https://www.irememberbetterwhenipaint.com/

🌐 Visit Us

For more stories and ways to stay connected, visit:

https://www.alzheimersthriver.org

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

“Afraid to Share the Diagnosis? How Janna Told Her Family and Took Back Her Voice” 

Not sure when or how to tell loved ones about an Alzheimer’s diagnosis? You’re not alone. The early stage is often filled with confusion, self-doubt, and fear of being treated differently. But hiding it only makes things harder. In this powerful episode, Janna shares how she broke the news to her sons and grandkids, and the surprising freedom that came with naming the diagnosis out loud. You’ll also hear the simple communication shift that helps her stay present and engaged in fast-paced conversations, even with memory challenges. 

You’ll discover: 

• Why telling others isn’t just about informing ...it’s about reclaiming power. 

    What to consider before speaking with children or grandchildren 

• The gentle language Janna uses when she doesn’t want to say “Alzheimer’s” 
• A unique “echoing” technique that keeps her focused during conversations 
• How to advocate for your needs without shame or apology 

If you or someone you love is wrestling with how much to say—and when—this episode offers real-life wisdom from someone walking the journey with courage, humor, and grace. 

1. European Geriatric Medicine (2021) 

“Family members’ attitudes towards telling the patient with Alzheimer’s disease their diagnosis: a 20year repeat study” 

• In Ireland, family members surveyed in 2021 were over 4× more likely to favor disclosing the diagnosis compared to two decades earlier Mayo Clinic Press+4SpringerLink+4PubMed+4. 
• The shift reflects broader recognition of patient autonomy, with disclosing seen as facilitating proactive planning rather than evoking negative reactions SpringerLink. 

2. Physicians Postgraduate Press (2019) 

“Disclosure of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Patient and Care PartnerCentric DecisionMaking and Communication” 

• This evidence-based consensus emphasizes that early and timely disclosure, paired with psychoeducation and care planning, improves quality of life, allows shared decision-making, and reduces harm by enabling earlier intervention PubMed. 

3. Alzheimer’s & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions (2024) 

“Personal value of Alzheimer’s disease biomarker testing and result disclosure from the patient and care partner perspective” 

• Disclosure of biomarker results (e.g. CSF/amyloid tests) provided diagnostic clarity, reduced anxiety, and motivated lifestyle changes and future planning, both for patients and care partners Verywell Health+12Alzheimer's Journals+12PubMed+12. 
• Some noted that patients hesitated to share to avoid burdening others, but families often appreciated the information and wanted to support planning PMC+3Alzheimer's Journals+3PMC+3. 

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Episode 15: Important Interruptions

In this heartfelt episode, Janna and Larry explore the challenges and realities of conversational flow when memory loss and slower speech patterns are present. They discuss the tension and humor of being interrupted, how interruptions can feel both frustrating and necessary, and the ways they’ve learned to “embrace the lag” to stay connected in family and group conversations.

Highlights from this episode:

·       How interruptions can both hurt and help when navigating memory changes.

·       Why “embracing the lag” opens up space for deeper connection.

·       Practical tools Janna uses—like signaling and echoing—to stay engaged.

·       What families can do to create patience and respect in conversations.

Listeners will walk away with fresh insight into the importance of slowing down, giving grace, and making room for every voice at the table—especially for those navigating Alzheimer’s or other memory challenges.

 Further Reading & Studies on Patience in Conversations with Alzheimer’s

Collins et al., 2022 – Methods and approaches for enhancing communication in dementia. Published in PMC/NCBI. Shows that slower, patient communication and simplified methods help people with dementia be better understood. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9109550

Tappen et al., 2002 – Conversation Intervention with Alzheimer’s Patients. Published in PMC/NCBI. Found that giving patients more time to respond and avoiding interruptions improved communication abilities. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2239260

Sunjaya et al., 2025 – Communication strategies for delivering personalized dementia care. Published in Ageing (Oxford Academic). Highlights patience, pauses, and individualized pace as essential in dementia care conversations. https://academic.oup.com/ageing/article/54/5/afaf120/8131738

Additional Authoritative Resources:

National Institute on Aging – Communicating With Someone Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-communication/communicating-someone-who-has-alzheimers

Alzheimer’s Association – Communication tips: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications

Harvard Health – Bridging the Gap: Dementia Communication Strategies https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/bridging-the-gap-dementia-communication-strategies

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

In Episode 14, Larry and Janna open up an honest and uplifting conversation about rediscovering self-esteem while living with memory challenges.

Janna shares a breakthrough moment—realizing how often she viewed herself through loss (not being able to read, drive, or orient like before). Instead of staying in that place, she chooses to reframe her story: to see her intelligence, her creativity, and her gift of deep listening as strengths that deserve recognition.

Together, Larry and Janna explore:

• How comparing ourselves to others erodes self-worth.
• Simple shifts in perspective that build confidence, even on “down days.”
• The role of memory, past accomplishments, and technology in rekindling self-esteem.
• Why replacing the word “no” with encouragement can change how we relate to each other.
• The importance of affirming dignity, listening, and joy—even in the midst of Alzheimer’s.

This episode is a gentle reminder that self-esteem is not about perfection or the abilities we’ve lost. It’s about reclaiming value, celebrating what remains, and finding new ways to thrive.

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

In this follow-up to Part 1, Janna and Larry continue their heartfelt conversation about the everyday realities of living—and thriving—with Alzheimer’s. While Part 1 focused on recognizing both the gains and losses that come along this journey, Part 2 digs deeper into an unexpected truth: sometimes help isn’t really help at all. 

From hanging clothes to loading the dishwasher, they share how small acts of “help” can unintentionally accelerate loss of skills—and how choosing when to step back can actually slow the trajectory of decline. They talk candidly about the tension between efficiency and independence, the emotional moments that come with relearning tasks, and the importance of adapting routines to keep life both manageable and meaningful. 

You’ll also hear about: 

• How to recognize when helping may actually foster dependence 
• The role of patience, humor, and faith in navigating daily challenges 
• Practical adjustments that preserve skills and dignity 
• Why partnership—not overprotection—matters most in care relationships 

This episode is as much about love and teamwork as it is about Alzheimer’s—reminding us that thriving together means sharing the load in a way that lifts both people up. 

If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, start there to get the full context before diving into this insightful and inspiring continuation. 

Link to a study related to This Podcast 

The development of the Promoting Independence In Dementia (PRIDE).  Intervention to enhance independence in dementia. PMC 

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Living with Alzheimer’s – Losses, Workarounds, and Unexpected Gifts 

In this heartfelt and hopeful episode, Janna, a self-described “Alzheimer’s Thriver™,” and her husband Larry open up about their journey navigating the losses and surprising gains brought on by Alzheimer's disease. Together, they explore how humor, adaptation, gratitude, and love have helped them cope with challenges and find joy in unexpected places. 

Topics Discussed: 

• Physical and sensory losses (vision, smell, taste) 
• Memory loss (short- and long-term) 
• Emotional regulation and self-talk 
• The power of legacy and storytelling 
• Using audiobooks as a memory aid 
• Music, empathy, and increased emotional sensitivity 
• Finding meaning in small joys (birds, children, fresh air) 
• Using mental routines and daily disciplines to stay sharp 
• Viewing Alzheimer’s as an “adventure” and not just a decline 

Highlights: 

• Janna describes how she manages low vision and memory changes with creative workarounds and positive inner dialogue. 
• Larry discusses how the loss of one ability can give rise to another—like Janna's improved musical ear and increased empathy. 
• The couple shares how listening to Janna’s own published audiobook has helped her preserve and reconnect with cherished memories. 
• Emphasis on staying present, practicing daily gratitude, and focusing on what one still can do. 

Supporting Articles & Research: 

Here are related studies and expert articles to deepen your understanding of the ideas discussed in this episode: 

1. Memory Loss and the Power of Reminiscence 

• Title: Reminiscence Therapy for Dementia
  Source: Verywell Health 
  This accessible article outlines how reminiscence therapy gently encourages individuals to recall and share positive memories using familiar prompts like photos, music, or meaningful objects. It presents evidence that the therapy can enhance memory, mood, and overall well-being, which aligns with the themes of connection and resilience that Janna and Larry explore. 

2. Creativity and Self-Expression in Alzheimer’s 

• Title: Art and Music Therapy in Alzheimer’s
  Source: Alzheimer's.org 
  Music and art therapy sessions can be held in groups or individually. 

3. The Power of Gratitude in Coping with Chronic Illness 

• Title: Gratitude and Well-being: The Benefits of Being Thankful
  Source: Harvard Health Publishing 
  Research supporting the mental and physical benefits of gratitude, even in the face of illness. 

4. Maintaining Daily Structure with Cognitive Decline 

• Title: Tips for Daily Routines for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
  Source: Alzheimer’s Association 
  Suggests how daily structure, mental cues, and small goals can improve quality of life and reduce stress. 

5. Audiobooks and Legacy Projects for Dementia Patients 

• Title: The Benefits of Journaling
  Source: Bella Grove 
  Examines how recorded personal

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Feel like your brain just isn’t keeping up? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. For many living with Alzheimer’s, the toughest part isn’t memory loss itself—it’s the fear of losing your sense of self. 
 
In this empowering episode, Janna shares how she’s using simple, creative strategies to keep her brain engaged and her spirit thriving. From playful crossword workarounds to redefining everyday labels, she shows how small shifts can create powerful new neural pathways—and help restore confidence along the way. 

You’ll discover: 

• What neural pathways are, and how to create new ones after diagnosis 
• How Janna and her care partner use crosswords differently to build brain flexibility 
• Why celebrating “small wins” helps rewire both your brain and your mindset 
• The power of choosing words like “thriver” and “care partner” to reclaim identity 
• How to teach others to support—not sideline—you 

Related Research & Articles 

• Show Notes – Revised Resource Section 

Related Research & Articles 

1. Plasticity in Early Alzheimer's Disease: An Opportunity for Intervention — Review showing potential in adaptive neural rewiring postdiagnosis. 
   Dr. Brian Ableson 
    
2. Physical Activity and Neuroplasticity in Neurodegenerative Disorders — How exercise and dual-task cognitive engagement strengthen neural pathways. Frontiers 
3. Lifelong Cognitive Reserve Reduces Dementia Risk — Meta-analysis linkin enriched lifestyles to lower dementia incidence. PMC  
    
4. Association of Lifelong Cognitive Reserve with Dementia and MCI — Cohort data showing cognitive resilience even among low-education elder populations. MCI 
    
5. Why Words Matter: “Care Partner” vs “Caregiver” – Alzheimer’s San Diego
   Discusses the language shift from “caregiver” to “care partner,” emphasizing empowerment and mutual respect. 
   Alzheimer’s San Diego 

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

When words don’t come out right — or aren’t received the way you hoped — it’s easy for conversations to spiral into arguments. And when Alzheimer’s is in the mix, it’s even harder. 

In this honest and often humorous episode, Janna and Larry explore why communication can break down so quickly, even with the best intentions. They share real-life examples of misunderstandings, emotional triggers, and missed signals — and offer simple ways couples and care partners can speak (and listen) with more grace. 

You’ll discover: 

• What to say when your partner is struggling emotionally — and what not to say 
• Why tone and timing matter more than words alone 
• How to support someone with memory loss without interrupting or correcting 
• Tools for staying present and connected, even in conflict 

If you’ve ever wished for more peace in your conversations, this episode is your gentle, heart-level guide to getting there — together. 

Links:

• Maintaining caring relationships in spouses affected by Alzheimer’s disease. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/07/150713095148.htm 
• Supportive marriages key to caregiver well-being, Rice study reveals vital link to dementia. Rice University https://news.rice.edu/news/2024/supportive-marriages-key-caregiver-well-being-rice-study-reveals-vital-link-dementia 
• Using validation therapy for people with dementia. Verywell Health.
  https://www.verywellhealth.com/using-validation-therapy-for-people-with-dementia-98683 
• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Communication: Tips for successful communication throughout the stages of Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s Association
  https://www.alz.org/getmedia/4c29359a-c9f0-4ae1-8f95-27e822635ead/alzheimers-dementia-communication-ts.pdf 
• 6 things never to do when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. Verywell Mind
  https://www.verywellmind.com/things-never-to-do-when-caring-alzheimers-8776968 
• Best Alzheimer’s disease support groups. 
  Verywell Health 
  https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-alzheimers-disease-support-groups-4844290 

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Giving up the keys is one of the hardest — and most emotional — steps for people living with Alzheimer’s. But it can also be one of the most important acts of self-awareness and courage. 

In this powerful episode, Janna and Larry open up about the real story behind Janna’s decision to stop driving: the denial, the scary moments, the emotional fallout, and the deep pride that made it feel so hard. With honesty and humility, they unpack how they navigated the turning point, and what it means to keep thriving — even when letting go of something big. 

You’ll discover: 

• The personal moment that made Janna realize it was time to stop driving 
• Why driving with Alzheimer’s is more dangerous than many want to admit 
• How to talk about safety without shame or control 
• The emotional weight of “giving up,” and how to reframe it as strength 

If you or a loved one is facing this decision, this episode offers real empathy, practical wisdom, and the reminder that letting go doesn’t mean losing yourself. It means choosing life — and those around you — with courage. 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

Links and Studies   

1. Mild cognitive impairment & early Alzheimer’s: predictors of driving cessation 

 “Mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease dementia, and predictors of driving cessation” (7‑year prospective study) 

•Link: PubMed    

2. Subtle cognitive decline often precedes self‑withdrawal from driving 

Study at Washington University St. Louis, published in Neurology & summarized by WashU and Harvard 

Link ScienceDaily and Harvard Studies 

3. Driving in early‑stage AD: literature review 

 “Driving in Early‑Stage Alzheimer’s Disease: An Integrative Review” (2016) 

•Link: Research in Gerontological Nursing  

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

There’s no one-size-fits-all cure for Alzheimer’s—but could small shifts in food and movement help slow things down? 

In this honest and hope-filled episode, Janna and Larry share what they’ve personally tried in the areas of diet and exercise, and how those changes have impacted Janna’s inflammation, energy, and daily outlook. From anti-inflammatory foods to brain-boosting walks, they offer no medical claims—just real results, told straight from lived experience. (Be sure to check the links to our research on our site at alzheimersthriver.org) 

You’ll discover: 

• How cutting refined sugar and empty carbs impacted Janna’s energy and joint pain 
• What a typical day of brain-supportive meals looks like (including dessert!) 
• Simple, do-anywhere exercises to boost circulation and cognition 
• Why trying hard things—like reading or music—can still grow new brain pathways 

This isn’t about perfect plans—it’s about practical, encouraging steps toward thriving. And if you’ve been feeling discouraged, Janna’s message at the end will give you the boost you didn’t know you needed. 

Links to research regarding this episode:

Diet-Induced Brain Insulin Resistance

“Induction of Brain Insulin Resistance and Alzheimer’s Molecular Changes by Western Diet”
Rodents fed a Western-style diet (high simple sugars + fats) developed insulin resistance in brain regions critical for Alzheimer’s. This led to increased amyloid precursor processing and tau pathology over time NIH

Human Data: Diet and Amyloid Accumulation

“High Glycemic Diet Is Related to Brain Amyloid Accumulation Over One Year in Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease”
In cognitively-normal older adults, higher intake of high-glycemic foods (including sugars) correlated with increased amyloid PET signal over 12 months—especially in the precuneus, a region vulnerable to amyloid buildup NIH

Mechanistic Reviews: Insulin Resistance → Amyloid

·       A mechanistic review outlines how insulin resistance promotes amyloidogenic APP cleavage, Aβ aggregation, and tau hyperphosphorylation—and how aggregated Aβ further disrupts insulin signaling, forming a vicious positive feedback loop PubMed

·       In models, insulin resistance alters the blood–brain barrier, reducing insulin uptake and increasing Aβ entry and retention in the brain AlzheimersJournalss.

Additional Mechanisms: Glycation & Inflammation

·       Elevated sugar leads to advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) that bind RAGE receptors, amplifying Aβ production, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and insulin resistance frontersin.org.

🧩 Synthesis: The Pathogenic Cycle

1.     High sugar → insulin resistance (peripheral and central).

2.     Brain insulin resistance → enhanced amyloidogenic APP processing and tau pathology.

3.     Aβ aggregates → disrupt insulin receptor signaling, worsening insulin resistance.

4.     Hyperglycemia & AGEs → aggravate oxidative stress, inflammation, and bloo

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Ever wake up and wonder where you are — or even who you are — for a few disorienting minutes? For those living with Alzheimer’s, that confusion can be a daily, unsettling experience. But it doesn’t have to lead to panic. 

In this insightful episode, Janna and Larry open up about Janna’s experiences with disorientation after waking, and how she’s learned to respond with calm, patience, and mindfulness. They also explore practical tips for navigating the fear of getting lost and the importance of creating safe, familiar routines. 

You'll discover: 

• How Janna reframed disorientation as a moment of pause, not panic 
• Simple grounding habits that support safer walking and movement 
• Why rushing to help might hurt — and how to empower instead 
• The emotional growth and empathy that can come from slowing down 

Whether you’re facing these challenges yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode brings wisdom, humor, and hope — straight from lived experience. 

Links related to disorientation: 

1. Spatial Disorientation & Getting Lost  
   https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2020.550514/full
2. GPS Tracking Study of Outdoor Movement https://aging.jmir.org/2022/2/e28222
3. Disorientation upon waking in Alzheimer’s is rooted in disrupted sleep-wake cycles, delayed cognitive processing, sensory factors, and sometimes physical causes. Helping involves setting up familiar, gradual morning cues: lighting, digital clocks, comforting reminders, and slow transitions. Over time, these steps can ease confusion and make mornings calmer. 

If it's causing distress or you notice additional symptoms (like persistent dizziness), it's wise to discuss this with a healthcare provider to rule out other issues or consider supportive treatments. 

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

When Alzheimer’s hits, it’s easy to ask: Why me? Is there any meaning in the pain? In this moving episode, Janna opens up about how her faith has helped her move from despair to determination—not just to survive with Alzheimer’s, but to thrive. Joined by her husband Larry, the two explore tough spiritual questions, share the routines that keep Janna grounded, and reflect on how belief, empathy, and mindset can shape what’s possible—even in the face of a diagnosis that tries to define you. 

You'll discover: 

How Janna reframed Alzheimer’s as “Buddy Al,” and why naming it changed everything. 

What faith looks like when healing isn’t guaranteed. 

How routines, repetition, and memorization support the brain and the soul.

Encouragement for both caregivers and those diagnosed to choose strength over victimhood.

This episode is about more than religion—it’s about resilience, meaning, and the quiet fight to keep showing up for life. Listen in for hope, honesty, and healing, straight from the heart.

Links relating the positive effects of Faith in Alzheimer Patients:

PubMed: 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20088813/

Alzheimer's Journal:

https://alzjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/alz.080462

Science Daily:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/04/050430222301.htm

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Ever feel like your brain just powers down as the day wears on? If late afternoons bring confusion, exhaustion, or deep sadness, you might be experiencing sundowning — a common but misunderstood Alzheimer's symptom.

In this deeply relatable episode, Janna and Larry unpack what sundowning really feels like, how it affects your sense of self, and what practical habits can ease its weight. From strategic napping to rethinking social timing, this conversation offers gentle, real-world ways to manage the fog and reclaim peace of mind.

You'll discover:

Whether you’re living with Alzheimer’s or caring for someone who is, this episode delivers clarity, empathy, and encouragement — straight from someone who truly gets it.

• Why sundowning happens and how it impacts your brain and body

• The surprising power of naps, daylight, and sleep tracking

• Ways to adjust your schedule to match your best energy windows

• How self-talk and acceptance can help shift your mindset on hard days

Here are a few website Links to studies related to Sundowning and the Alzheimer’s Thriver need for more sleep as time goes on:

⁠Alzheimer's Society⁠:

⁠https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/is-it-typical-people-dementia-sleep-lot-during-day⁠

⁠Boston University:⁠

⁠https://www.bu.edu/alzresearch/files/pdf/VolicerSundowningandAD20012.pdf⁠

⁠ScienceDaily⁠: 

⁠https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/07/230728113414.htm⁠

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

If you've ever been given help  by a loved one — only to find they accidentally made things worse — you're not alone. 

In this heartfelt episode, Janna and her husband Larry open up about the delicate balance between offering help and respecting independence. Through honest conversations and real-life examples, they share what it really feels like when “help” is not help, crossing the line — and how small shifts in patience, communication, and trust can make all the difference. 

You'll discover: 

• Why “less is more” when it comes to helping someone thrive 
• How emotional swings are natural — and what true empathy looks like 
• Tips for building routines that empower, not control 
• How care partners can better support without taking over.  
• 
  

Be sure to visit www.alzheimersthriver.org for more info

Studies and Articles on Topic for todays Podcast:

·  “Supporting independence at home for people living with dementia” – M Leverton et al., 2021.
This ethnographic study explores how home-care workers (and by extension family caregivers) can either support or inhibit independence in people living with dementia. It speaks directly to the idea of doing too much too quickly, rather than enabling the person to “do for themselves” and stay active. PMC

·  “‘I just keep thinking that I don’t want to rely on people.’ A qualitative study of independence in older people living with dementia” – P Rapaport et al., 2020.
This qualitative research captures voices of people living with dementia as they reflect on independence vs. interdependence. It’s helpful context for your theme of finishing sentences for them or acting too quickly. BioMed Central

·  “Promoting Independence With Alzheimer’s Care” – article in Alzinfo (2013).
This is a more accessible piece (not strictly peer-reviewed journal) but very relevant: it discusses research showing that when caregivers assume too many duties, it can create a “dependency support script” and diminish the person’s sense of self-worth. Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research

·  “Perceived Overprotection and Its Association with Quality of Life in Dementia” – (ResearchGate abstract)
This study examines how partner over-protection (i.e., perhaps doing too much for the person) is associated with worse outcomes for the person with dementia, likely through loss of autonomy. ResearchGate

·  “Priorities of Family Caregivers in Preserving Functional Abilities of Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease” – 2024.
This study uses the Best-Worst Scaling method to identify what family caregivers value most in preserving daily living skills of Alzheimer’s patients. It ties into your theme: if the caregiver is always stepping in, those abilities may decline. Community Health Nursing

·  “Evaluating Elements of the Care Partner Experience in Individuals who Care f

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

Getting diagnosed with Alzheimer's can feel like being placed on a fast-moving, unstoppable train — but what if there were real ways to slow it down? 

In this honest and encouraging episode, Janna and her husband Larry share how simple but consistent habits — from mindful speech exercises to intentional movement — have helped Janna maintain her abilities and quality of life. They open up about struggles, small victories, and the power of persistence in the face of discouragement. 

You'll discover: 

• How daily word games and pacing techniques can boost speech and confidence 
• Why practicing even familiar skills (like walking or playing an instrument) matters more than ever 
• How to build new neural pathways and preserve function longer 
• Encouragement to stay in the fight, even on hard days 

Follow along for straight talk, real hope, and practical tips — direct from someone living the journey every day. You are not powerless. Let's keep moving forward together. 

Links

1 Salk Institute: In Surprising Twist, Some Alzheimer’s Plaques May Be Protective, Not Destructive.

2 Alzheimer’s Association: Increased Brain Rewiring in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment  

3 Harvard Health: The Book of Neurogenesis

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.

The Alzheimer's Thriver Podcast - Words from the Horse’s Mouth

Getting an Alzheimer's diagnosis can feel like your world is crashing down — but what if the story you're telling yourself is a barrier to thriving, even with Alzheimer’s?

In this heartfelt first episode, Janna, a former teacher turned Alzheimer's thriver, shares her raw journey from denial and despair to hope and empowerment. Through personal stories, gentle encouragement, and science-backed insights like the famous Nun Study, Janna reveals how mindset shifts can slow the disease's grip and rekindle purpose.

You'll discover:

· Why changing your narrative is a powerful first step

· How small daily practices can make a big difference

· Real-life proof that thriving with Alzheimer's is possible

· Encouragement straight "from the horse’s mouth" — honest, lived experience

Hit follow and join Janna as she shares what's working, what's real, and what can help you or your loved one live better with Alzheimer's. You're not alone — let's thrive together.

The Nun Study: https://ssnd.org/ministries/nun_study/

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.