Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers By cover art

Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers

By: Podcast Playground
Listen for free

  • Summary

  • Navigating the insidious illness of Alzheimer’s is something nobody asks for. The disease sneaks up on you and your loved one, and it feels like you’ve been sucker-punched in the gut when you get the diagnosis from a doctor. So many things race through your mind: why us? What do we do? We worked so hard to get to this point in life. We just moved here after we both worked for 30 years, sold our house up North, and retired to Florida to enjoy our “golden years”. It’s not fair! Who’s going to take care of her/him? I don’t know a thing about this illness. She’s always done the cooking; I don’t even know how to boil water. He's always taken care of me and everything else like Finances. I don’t even drive! And it goes on and on. Facing this disease will bring you to your knees. Once you get over the initial shock (GUT PUNCHED), the questions and fears take hold. Where do we turn for help? Who do I call? What do I do? How do you take care of someone with Alzheimer's? Are there support groups? And questions like these just keep coming. I am a caregiver. I wasn’t before. Well, not this kind of caregiver. My wife was officially diagnosed in January of 2018. I had a sneaking suspicion that she might have something like this about 2 years earlier. So, when I brought it to my Neurologist, he sent us to a very nice Psychologist who specializes in testing patients to determine more accurately what is going on. It was a question-and-answer session, followed by a very detailed testing procedure that usually takes 3 or more hours. The patient has to complete the test comprising of questions, simple actions, and memory tests, then give them a couple of numbers or words then move on, going back to the numbers or words a short time later.

    So moving forward, I asked all the same questions as mentioned earlier. What are my options? So I “sucked it up”-Manned up so to speak. It's part of the deal for better or worse, right? So began my quest for information on support groups, doctors, anything I could get my hands on. It's been 6 years, and I am still looking for everything and anything that will help me crawl through this unchartered path to enlightenment. I was very fortunate to live in a city that has numerous resources to tap into. Most importantly, it's a place named after someone who suffered from Alzheimer’s. His wife provided the money to start the Alvin Dubin Center: The Dubin Center for short. Their mission is to achieve caregiver health, strength, and resilience by providing education, information, hope, and compassion. And boy do they. I leaned on them for everything I could find. Took all kinds of classes to learn what I needed to do to be the caregiver I have to be. Their caregiver class took about 6 weeks. The material we learned from, and the instructors, were top-notch. I still go back to the notes I took, and the books we used: both as refreshers and inspiration. Hopefully, no matter where you are listening to this, there will be a place like the Dubin Center. If not, don’t despair. The info is out there. That’s what this podcast is about. We’d like to share our resources, our experiences, our heartbreak, and our little victories. From time to time, we’d like to bring in Physicians, Nurses, Experts, and people like you and me, who are going through this disease with our loved ones who are willing to share their journey. The first thing that really stuck with me, and hopefully it will be with you. If you are a caregiver, you must first take care of yourself. Because this is not a sprint, but a marathon. And if you are run down, get sick, or worse.... Who’s going to take care of your spouse, mother, father, or child? Think about that for a few seconds. It’s you, the Caregiver. It’s me the Caregiver. That’s why we’re here. Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers! Thanks for joining us...now let's get going.
    Show more Show less
Episodes
  • Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 14

    Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 14
    Jun 17 2024

    In Episode 14 of "GutPunched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers," hosted by Jeff Edwards, viewers are informed about a significant breakthrough in Alzheimer's treatment. A newly approved drug, endorsed by the FDA, shows promise in slowing the disease's progression. This development is explored in depth, providing hope and insights into its potential impact on patients and caregivers.

    To delve deeper into the challenges faced by caregivers, Jeff interviews Dan Moser, a certified Dementia Care Specialist and facilitator of Dementia Caregiver Support Groups. Dan shares invaluable tips and strategies for caregivers, emphasizing the importance of self-care and community support in managing the demands of caregiving.

    Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to explore resources and support networks available to caregivers through the links provided:

    Learn more about the FDA-approved Alzheimer's drug Learn more about the FDA-approved Alzheimer's drug

    Learn more about the FDA-approved Alzheimer's drug

    Connect with Dementia Caregiver Support Groups

    y highlighting these advancements and support systems, Episode 14 of "GutPunched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers" aims to empower caregivers with knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's caregiving effectively.

    This version includes active links to relevant resources and emphasizes the two rules: staying informed about treatment advancements and leveraging support networks for caregivers.
    Show more Show less
    28 mins
  • Gut Punched: EP 13 - Home Safety, Brain Health, and Nostalgic Melodies

    Gut Punched: EP 13 - Home Safety, Brain Health, and Nostalgic Melodies
    Jun 10 2024

    Hosted by Jeff Edwards, episode 13 of GutPunched delves into crucial aspects of Alzheimer's disease, offering practical insights and emotional support for both caregivers and individuals impacted by the condition.

    The episode begins with a focus on Alzheimer's Disease Home Safety, exploring strategies for creating a safe and supportive environment within the home. Viewers gain valuable tips and resources to ensure the well-being and security of their loved ones living with Alzheimer's.

    Next, the spotlight shifts to Disaster Preparedness, emphasizing the importance of planning and preparation in the event of emergencies. Jeff shares expert advice on how families and caregivers can proactively safeguard against potential risks and effectively respond to crises.

    In the News segment, viewers stay informed as Science Pinpoints Nutrients Crucial to Brain Health. Cutting-edge research highlights the role of specific nutrients in promoting cognitive function and brain health, offering hope and actionable insights for those affected by Alzheimer's.

    Turning to the Entertainment world, the episode explores the lives of famous individuals who have battled or are battling Alzheimer's and dementia. Through their stories, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the widespread impact of these conditions and the importance of advocacy and awareness.

    To infuse a touch of nostalgia and levity, GutPunched includes an extra segment featuring a Classical Music track reminiscent of beloved characters like Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd. This musical interlude serves as a heartwarming reminder of cherished memories and brings moments of joy amidst the challenges of Alzheimer's.

    Finally, viewers are provided with links to helplines and support resources, ensuring access to assistance and guidance whenever needed. GutPunched Episode 13 offers a comprehensive blend of practical advice, uplifting stories, and nostalgic moments, fostering empathy, resilience, and community support in the journey through Alzheimer's.
    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 12

    Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 12
    Jun 3 2024

    In Episode 12 of Gut Punched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers, the focus shifts to the profound impact of changes in personality and behavior associated with Alzheimer's disease.

    Building upon the previous episode, Host Jeff Edwards delves deeper into this challenging aspect of caregiving, providing insights, strategies, and empathy for those navigating through it.

    Part 2 of this discussion explores the complexities of managing alterations in personality and behavior in Alzheimer's patients. Through expert interviews, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how to cope with these changes while maintaining compassion and dignity for their loved ones.

    In a compelling "In The News" segment, the podcast covers the latest developments in Alzheimer's research. Highlighting the efforts of researchers striving to find a cure, the hosts share updates on promising breakthroughs, clinical trials, and innovative approaches in the fight against this debilitating disease.

    Shifting gears to the entertainment world, Gut Punched brings listeners a captivating story about Jay Leno and his wife Mavis. The hosts explore Jay Leno's recent decision to seek a conservatorship for his wife, shedding light on the emotional and legal complexities involved in caring for a spouse with Alzheimer's.

    Throughout the episode, listeners are provided with links and information to access support resources for caregivers. From online forums and support groups to local services and helplines, the hosts aim to empower caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the Alzheimer's journey with resilience and compassion.

    Episode 12 of Gut Punched: Alzheimer's & Caregivers serves as a beacon of hope and guidance for caregivers, offering invaluable insights, support, and resources to help them navigate the turbulent waters of Alzheimer's disease with strength and grace.
    Show more Show less
    21 mins
Psychology Hygiene & Healthy Living
Show more Show less

What listeners say about Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.com reviews

Amazon reviews
No Reviews are Available