In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Roger Wells, PA-C and Julie Levy, RD, BC-ADM, CDCES to break down one of the most common—and most misunderstood—chronic conditions affecting families in our community: diabetes.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply want clear, trustworthy information, this episode offers practical explanations, myth‑busting insight, and hope. Julie walks listeners through what diabetes actually is inside the body, using simple visuals to explain how insulin works and why blood sugar climbs when the body can’t use glucose effectively. Roger brings the provider perspective, outlining why treatment matters long before symptoms appear—and how untreated diabetes affects everything from vision and nerves to heart and kidney health.
Together, they address the most common misconceptions and “quick fixes” circulating on social media, explain which over‑the‑counter options may help (and which definitely won’t), and break down the medications proven to change long‑term outcomes. The conversation also highlights LRHC’s team‑based approach to diabetes care, designed to support patients emotionally, medically, and day‑to‑day—so no one feels overwhelmed or alone.
Throughout the episode, Roger and Julie offer reassurance, clarity, and realistic next steps, reminding listeners that diabetes is manageable, treatable, and absolutely not something you have to navigate on your own.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What diabetes really is and what’s happening inside the body
• The differences between Type 1, Type 2, LADA, and other types of diabetes
• Why treatment matters even when you “feel fine”
• How high blood sugar affects blood vessels, eyes, nerves, kidneys, and circulation
• Myths and misconceptions—herbal teas, vinegar, essential oils, social media “cures,” and more
• Over‑the‑counter supplements: what might help, what’s unproven, and what to discuss with your provider
• Medications that truly change long‑term health outcomes, including GLP‑1s and SGLT2 inhibitors
• Why metformin and insulin still play key roles depending on the person
• How LRHC’s team‑based diabetes care model works
• What first appointments look like—and why support is essential for success
• Why diabetes is not a death sentence, and how patients can live full, healthy lives

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or simply seeking clarity, this episode delivers practical, compassionate guidance for understanding diabetes and taking confident steps toward better health.

Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life.

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Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.

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In this second episode of our dementia series, Vitals & Voices continues the conversation with Dr. Francisca Carlson, family medicine physician and Chief Medical Officer at Lexington Regional Health Center, to further explore dementia—what it is, what it isn’t, and how to recognize it early.
Building on the foundation from our first episode, Dr. Carlson begins with a brief recap of dementia before guiding listeners through early signs, initial changes families often notice, and when concerns should prompt a conversation with a provider. The discussion includes a clear explanation of mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—how it differs from dementia, common characteristics, and why early recognition matters.
A key focus of this episode is addressing common misconceptions about dementia. Dr. Carlson explains how conditions such as thyroid disorders, malnutrition, and other treatable medical issues can mimic cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of proper evaluation before assuming a dementia diagnosis.
The episode concludes with a walkthrough of the five major types of dementia, highlighting defining characteristics of each and how providers differentiate them during diagnosis. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Carlson offers clarity, reassurance, and practical insight—helping individuals and families feel more informed and less overwhelmed.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• A brief recap of dementia and how it typically presents
• Early signs and initial changes that may indicate cognitive decline
• What mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is and how it differs from dementia
• Common myths about dementia—and conditions that can look like it but aren’t
• How thyroid disorders, malnutrition, and other medical issues can affect cognition
• The five main types of dementia and key characteristics of each
• Why accurate diagnosis matters and how providers approach evaluation

Whether you’re joining us after the first episode or starting here, this second podcast offers clear, compassionate education for anyone wanting to better understand dementia. It’s designed to reduce fear, correct misconceptions, and empower listeners with knowledge and confidence.

Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life.

Subscribe & Stay Connected:
Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.

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In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Dr. Francisca Acosta-Carlson, Family Medicine Physician and Chief Medical Officer at Lexington Regional Health Center, to unpack a topic that touches countless families—dementia. Dr. Carlson helps break down what dementia really is, how to spot the early signs, and what steps families can take when concerns begin to surface.
Whether you’re noticing changes in a loved one, curious about risk factors, or simply looking to better understand how to support someone living with dementia, this episode offers compassionate, practical insight for every listener.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• A clear definition of dementia—what it is, what it isn’t, and how it affects the brain and daily life.
• The most common signs and symptoms, including memory changes, confusion, and functional challenges that may signal early cognitive decline.
• How depression can overlap with or mimic dementia—and why distinguishing the two is important for effective care.
• Which everyday forgetful moments are normal, and which behaviors may point to something more significant.
• Evidence‑based ways to lower dementia risk, including lifestyle habits rooted in diet, exercise, and mental engagement.
• How families can best support a loved one living with dementia, from communication approaches to creating a safe, reassuring environment.
• What to do if you’re concerned about a family member, including the first steps for getting them evaluated and connected to appropriate care.

If you’ve begun noticing changes in yourself or someone close to you—or if you simply want to be prepared and informed—this conversation with Dr. Carlson provides guidance, clarity, and reassurance. Remember: recognizing concerns early and starting the conversation can make a meaningful difference.

Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life.

Subscribe & Stay Connected:
Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.

• YouTube
• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify