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.

Thank you for listening to Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 73 Not A Sexy Topic.

In this deeply personal episode, Jeff Edwards continues his journey with his wife’s rare and severe reaction to Alzheimer’s medication. After a terrifying hospital stay involving brain swelling and bleeds, Jeff shares powerful lessons learned about home health care, insurance, and pre-crisis planning.

From creating a list of home health providers to ensuring your insurance covers the right services, Jeff’s lessons are invaluable for anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. Plus, get insights into the critical connection between gut health and Alzheimer’s risk, with tips on brain-boosting diets.

Key Takeaways:

• Why reading the fine print on insurance documents can make all the difference.

• How to prepare before a health crisis strikes.

• The importance of self-care as a caregiver.

If you're supporting someone with Alzheimer's, this episode is a must-listen.

👉 Tune in NOW on Podcast Playground, PodBean, Apple, Spotify, Pandora, GUTPUNCHED.COM & more!

GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers – Episode 72
Part 3: My Wife is in the 1%

In this powerful and personal episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards continues the deeply emotional journey of navigating life after his wife experienced a rare reaction to an amyloid-clearing Alzheimer’s medication, putting her in the 1% of patients who suffer significant side effects.

Jeff opens up about the hard lessons learned during hospital visits, interacting with doctors, and managing crisis moments in caregiving. From the critical need to carry medication lists, to having a go-bag ready, Jeff shares practical, battle-tested advice that every caregiver should hear, wisdom he wishes he’d known sooner.

Also in this episode:

• A discussion on bad habits that can hurt your brain

• Recognition of World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and the global efforts on September 21st to raise awareness and fight the stigma of Alzheimer’s

• A reminder of the 5 core tenets of caregiving that GutPunched lives by—offering guidance, hope, and solidarity to listeners facing similar challenges

Jeff’s message is clear: You’re not alone. Planning, preparation, and asking for help aren’t signs of weakness; they’re lifelines. And by sharing his story, he’s helping others become more informed, more prepared, and more supported.

Stay tuned for Part 3, where Jeff discusses his education with in-home physical therapy and navigating the maze of insurance companies.

If this episode helps or resonates with you, subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with others walking the path of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving. There is help, and there is hope.