Can a familiar song unlock a memory, spark a smile, or reconnect someone living with Alzheimer’s to a special moment in their life? Music has an extraordinary ability to touch our emotions, bring back memories, and connect us with people and experiences from our past. But what happens when Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia affects those memories? Research has shown that listening to music, singing, and playing musical instruments can activate multiple brain regions, including those involved in memory, emotion, and movement. And for people living with dementia, music may offer something particularly meaningful: moments of connection, engagement, comfort, and joy. 

 

In Episode 128 of GutPunched, host Jeff Edwards explores the fascinating relationship between music, memory, and Alzheimer’s disease. Jeff welcomes Stephanie Malally, a medical social worker (MSW) with Lee Health’s Memory Care, for a conversation about the role music can play in the lives of people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Sometimes, even when words become difficult to find, a familiar melody can still bring people together.

 

🧠 APOE4: Eight Lifestyle Changes That May Help

Carrying the APOE4 gene is associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. But genetics aren’t the whole story.

We share eight lifestyle considerations that may help support brain health and potentially reduce overall dementia risk.

 

🩺 What’s New With Alzheimer’s — Dr. John Huffaker

Dr. John Huffaker of the Neuropsychiatric Research Center returns to answer another listener question. This week’s question comes from West Virginia and focuses on vascular dementia.

Another episode filled with information, encouragement, and practical resources for caregivers and families.

 

Real Talk. Real Help. Real Hope. 💜 HOPE WITHOUT HYPE!

 

🎵 Special Musical Feature: This episode also features original instrumental music by Jeff Edwards and closes with a Motown-inspired version of his original song, “I Still Choose You.”

 

#GutPunched #Alzheimers #Dementia #MusicAndMemory #MusicTherapy #AlzheimersCaregivers #DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #BrainHealth #APOE4 #VascularDementia #LeeHealth #IntermezzoChoir #WalkToEndAlzheimers #HopeWithoutHype

 

Available on: The Podcast Playground, Apple, Spotify, Pandora, PodBean, iHeart, YouTube, & GUTPUNCHED.COM