Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s rarely happens in neat, manageable steps. Challenges pile up, crises overlap, and caregivers often find themselves pushing through exhaustion, confusion, and difficult decisions, sometimes all in the same week.

In this episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, the conversation turns to a question many families eventually hear from doctors, friends, or support groups:
“Have you considered a research study?”

For caregivers and families facing Alzheimer’s disease, those words can trigger a flood of emotions and questions. Is participating in a research study a path to hope? Is it pressure to try something experimental? Is it safe? And how do you know if it’s the right choice for your loved one?

In Episode 94, we take an honest gut-check on Alzheimer’s research studies, what they actually involve, what caregivers should expect, and how to evaluate whether participation is right for your situation.

Joining the discussion is Dr. John Huffaker of the Neuropsychiatric Research Center (NPRC), who shares insights into how clinical trials work, what protections exist for patients, and how families can make informed decisions when exploring research opportunities.

We also continue our regular segment “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?”, where Dr. Huffaker answers a listener's question about the latest developments in Alzheimer’s care and research.

Before diving into the conversation, the episode also highlights the reality that many caregivers know too well: sometimes life throws everything at you at once. From health setbacks to caregiving stress, perseverance becomes part of daily life.

As always, the show revisits the Five Tenets of Caregiving, guiding principles that remind caregivers to prioritize their own well-being, build a support network, and accept help when it’s offered.

Whether you’re exploring clinical trials, trying to understand Alzheimer’s research, or simply navigating the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving, this episode provides practical insight and a compassionate perspective.

If you have a question you’d like answered on the show, send it to: gutpunchedac@outlook.com

Supported by:
Neuropsychiatric Research Center (NPRC)
Heart, Body & Mind Home Care
Live Younger Today
#CaregiverLife
#AlzheimersAwareness
#GutPunchedPodcast
#AlzheimersCaregiving
#CaregiverSupport
#AlzheimersResearch
#ClinicalTrials
#DementiaCare
#FamilyCaregivers

Available On: GUTPUNCHED.COM THE PODCAST PLAYGROUND; Apple, Spotify, Pandora, Pod Bean, and many more.

In Episode 93 of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards dives into questions that many caregivers and families quietly struggle with: “Why can’t I remember?” Is it normal aging, stress, or something more? Jeff unpacks the emotional weight behind memory lapses and how fear can sometimes speak louder than facts.

We also revisit the age-old debate: “Old Man vs. Woman,” separating cultural myths from medical realities regarding memory, cognitive decline, and caregiving roles. Are women more likely to develop Alzheimer’s? Do men experience symptoms differently? What’s biology, and what’s misunderstanding?

And in today’s world of online overload, we tackle Myth vs. Fact to help caregivers avoid being misled by misinformation, exaggerated claims, and “miracle cures.” Knowledge is power, especially when emotions are running high.

Plus, we answer another listener question in “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?” with Dr. John Huffaker, bringing clarity to current research and developments in memory care.

As always, Jeff reinforces the show’s Five Tenets of Caregiving, practical, real-world guidance for surviving (and sustaining) the caregiving journey.

If you're caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or worried about your own memory, this episode is your reminder: You are not alone, and facts matter.

In Episode 92, host Jeff Edwards brings you a powerful and heartfelt conversation that reminds us why this podcast exists.

After attending the inspiring McGregor Dementia Seminar hosted by McGregor Baptist Church, Jeff reflects on the incredible energy, resources, and support shared with caregivers. The event was filled with meaningful connections and practical information designed to help those navigating what we call “brain change.”

Jeff also shares about his recent visit to the Alzheimer’s Support Network (ASN) in Naples, Florida, a passionate organization committed to supporting caregivers and individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Karen Rodino of ASN for a conversation unlike any other. This isn’t just informative, it’s emotional. Karen’s knowledge, sincerity, empathy, and passion shine through in a way you’ll feel in your gut.

Alzheimer’s Support Network remembers those who forget.

Plus, in our recurring segment “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?”, Dr. John Huffaker answers another listener-submitted question, bringing clarity and insight to the latest in Alzheimer’s care and research.

We also revisit the FIVE TENETS, the backbone of everything we believe:

1. Take care of yourself first.

2. You can’t do it alone; find support.

3. Use the help that’s offered.

4. Create a Help Signal.

5. Caregiving: Love it or hate it, it’s your life until it’s not. Give it your all.

As GutPunched enters its third year and approaches 100 episodes, we invite you to visit GutPunched.com and help us continue building a resource hub that truly serves caregivers.

We’re here to bring trusted resources, honest conversations, and real support.

#AlzheimersCare #CaregiverSupport #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregivers #BrainChange #GutPunchedPodcast #CaregiverLife #AlzheimersAwareness #SupportNetwork #PodcastCommunity

AVAILABLE ON: GUTPUNCHED.COM, The Podcast Playground, PodBean, Spotify, Pandora, Apple, i-Heart, and many more.