Advertise on podcast: Spotlight on Care: Alzheimer's Caregiving

When retired software executive Nancy Treaster noticed subtle shifts in her husband Kim’s language and behavior, doctors initially dismissed it as work-related anxiety. In this episode of Spotlight on Care, hosts Virginia Naeve and Steve O'Leary sit down with Nancy to discuss her persistent journey to get her husband an accurate diagnosis of Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and primary progressive aphasia. She shares candid insights on recognizing early red flags, advocating for a loved one when medical answers don't fit, and adapting to the unique emotional and daily challenges of caring for a spouse with FTD. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Steve and Virginia speak again with Marty Schreiber about the deeper emotional side of dementia care. Marty explains why simple things like holding hands or singing are so important for staying connected with a loved one. He shares advice on how caregivers can "join their loved one's world" instead of trying to correct them, and discusses the ongoing grief that comes with the disease. Marty also reminds caregivers why it is okay—and necessary—to use humor and take time for themselves. It is a heartfelt conversation about finding peace and joy in the present moment.  Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Steve and Virginia speak with former Wisconsin governor, author and Alzheimer’s advocate Marty Schreiber about his personal caregiving journey with his wife, Elaine, who lived with Alzheimer’s disease. Marty shares how the experience transformed his life and led him to become an advocate for caregivers. Drawing from both heartbreak and wisdom, he reflects on the physical and emotional realities of caregiving and the importance of approaching dementia with compassion and understanding. Marty wrote a book titled, My Two Elaines, about his experience caring for his wife through Alzheimer’s.   Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Steve and Virginia speak with elder law attorney Fay Blix about the critical importance of early legal planning after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Fay explains how stigma, fear, and denial often delay planning, and emphasizes involving the diagnosed person in decisions while they still have capacity. She outlines key tools such as durable powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and POLST forms, stressing that documents should be clear, personalized, and regularly updated. Fay also discusses the emotional and logistical challenges families face, the value of open communication and defined roles, and why conservatorship, though sometimes necessary, can be costly and intrusive. Her core message: proactive legal planning helps protect dignity, reduce stress for caregivers, and ensure a person’s wishes are honored as the disease progresses. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Spotlight on Care, hosts Virginia Naeve and Steve O’Leary are joined by Deborah Kan, the founder of Being Patient , a leading digital resource for Alzheimer’s and dementia information. Drawing from her personal experience as a caregiver and her background as a journalist, Deborah explains how her platform serves as a comprehensive roadmap for families through three core pillars: demystifying complex research, hosting live "Brain Talks" with medical experts, and sharing authentic first-person stories to reduce stigma. The conversation also explores innovative tools available on the site, such as interactive diagnostic guides and AI-powered "Care Bots" designed to provide immediate support. To learn more about Being Patient and access these resources, click on this link here: https://beingpatient.com/. Send us Fan Mail

This special holiday episode of Spotlight on Care offers practical, compassionate guidance for planning celebrations with loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Co-hosts Virginia and Steve share personal stories and helpful tips for creating calm, meaningful gatherings—from keeping events small and familiar to preparing guests in advance. They discuss the value of routines over traditions, involving the person with dementia in simple activities, and recognizing signs of stress or fatigue. The conversation encourages caregivers to slow down, adjust expectations, and focus on joy in the moment. Send us Fan Mail

Join Steve and Virginia for an enlightening conversation with renowned dementia care educator Teepa Snow as we explore how to cope with challenging situations when supporting people living with dementia. Teepa shares her compassionate, person-centered approach to understanding the why behind these challenges, and offers practical techniques for de-escalating tense situations, identifying common triggers, and maintaining dignity and connection. Whether you’re a family care partner or professional care provider, Teepa’s decades of expertise will transform the way you respond to challenging situations and provide actionable strategies that make a real difference in daily care.  Teepa's Website: https://teepasnow.com/ Send us Fan Mail

In today’s episode of Spotlight on Care, co-hosts Steve and Virginia welcome Dr. Bryce Mander for an in-depth conversation on the critical role of sleep in healthy aging and dementia prevention. Drawing on his expertise in sleep science, Dr. Mander explains how and why sleep changes as we age, the impact these changes can have on memory and overall brain health, and why caregivers are particularly vulnerable to sleep-related challenges. The discussion also explores ways to recognize when sleep issues may need medical attention and how addressing them can benefit both those living with dementia and their care partners. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, co-hosts Steve and Virginia welcome back Valerie George and Sonia Sehgal to discuss the GUIDE program (Guiding and Improved Dementia Experience), a groundbreaking care initiative launched by CMS in 2023. The GUIDE program offers comprehensive, long-term support for both people living with dementia and their unpaid caregivers, recognizing the significant burden caregivers face. Over the course of eight years, participants receive structured assessments, caregiver support services, and coordinated care management through a multidisciplinary team. Valerie and Sonia share insights into how GUIDE operates, eligibility requirements, and the vital role of caregiver empowerment.  Listeners will learn how caregivers can access this resource, what makes GUIDE unique, and how it brings essential services directly to those in need. To learn more: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide Send us Fan Mail

Steve and Virginia sit down with Andrea Hughes, a dedicated caregiver whose mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease. Featured in the PBS documentary Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s, Andrea shares her personal journey navigating the challenges of caregiving at a young age, balancing work and family responsibilities, and finding strength through community and storytelling. To learn more, visit the PBS documentary page, follow Andrea on Instagram @itsandreakrystal, and explore her work at candidcaregiverscollective.com. Send us Fan Mail

Steve and Virginia explore the vital role that geriatricians play in diagnosing and managing dementia and other cognitive symptoms in older adults. The co-hosts are joined by Valerie George, a certified physician assistant with UCI Health, and Sonia Sehgal, MD, a board-certified geriatrician and internist with UCI Health, who discuss how geriatric care should take a whole-person approach—addressing cognitive impairment, chronic conditions, and social factors while actively involving caregivers. Valerie and Dr. Sehgal explain the difference between geriatricians and gerontologists, share their experiences supporting families, and highlight the benefits of seeking an early diagnosis and team-based care. Together, they emphasize the importance of compassionate, proactive support for both patients and caregivers throughout the aging journey. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Steve and Virginia explore the emotional and practical differences between caring for a parent versus a spouse with dementia. Virginia emphasizes the role reversal and challenges of managing her mother’s daily needs and finances, while Steve opens up about the loss of companionship and adapting intimacy in his relationship with his wife, Patty. They discuss the importance of communication with family members, the struggle of accepting help, and the emotional weight of caregiving tasks. Their conversation highlights the complexities of long-term caregiving and the importance of maintaining connection, patience, and open dialogue throughout the journey. Send us Fan Mail

Virginia and Steve are joined by Ruth Ann Rousseau, a caregiver and support group leader, to discuss the vital role that support groups play for dementia caregivers. Ruth Ann highlights how these groups provide resources, confidence, and community while addressing the challenges of participation. She compares online and in-person meetings and encourages caregivers to seek support, stay open to learning, and prioritize self-care. The discussion concludes with a reminder to persist in finding the right support system and advocating for personal well-being. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Spotlight on Care, Steve and Virginia explore the complex and often distressing experience of delusions in dementia with David Sultzer, MD, the Clinical Research Director at UCI MIND and professor of Psychiatry & Human Behavior. Dr. Sultzer explains how and when delusions, such as paranoia and misidentification, develop in individuals with dementia and the impact they have on caregivers. He discusses practical approaches for managing these false beliefs, including reassurance, environmental adjustments, and structured routines. The conversation also covers available medications that may help prevent or reduce delusions, along with its potential risks. Resource: What Are Delusions? These false beliefs can be a symptom of delusional disorder or another condition by Amy Morin, LCSW; Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD https://www.verywellmind.com/definition-of-delusion-4580458docdd Send us Fan Mail

Virginia and Steve discuss the legal concerns that arise after a dementia diagnosis with Orange County probate attorney, Stephen Magro, JD, who has 30 years of experience in elder law.  Mr. Magro outlines the legal steps needed to help protect loved ones with dementia including setting up a will and trust and establishing an advanced health care directive.  For more information about Stephen Magro’s law firm, visit www.smagrolaw.com. What would like to hear about next? Email us at [email protected]. Send us Fan Mail